Cyclosporiasis Is Surging: 8 Foods to Avoid

As the nation grapples with an alarming rise in cases of cyclosporiasis, health officials are issuing clear guidance regarding certain food items. Dr. Sohaib Imtiaz, the Chief Medical Officer at PEOPLE Inc., has identified specific foods that should be avoided to minimise the risk of infection as nearly 7,000 cases have been recorded across the country. Early indications suggest that raw produce, particularly lettuce, may be a contributing factor in this outbreak.

Despite the rising number of cases, Dr. Imtiaz underscores that individuals should not abandon their intake of fruits and vegetables entirely. “The good news is that health officials are not recommending people stop eating fruits and vegetables,” he stated. Fresh produce is crucial to a healthy diet, but consumers must exercise caution during this outbreak.

One of the most concerning items on the list is prewashed, bagged lettuce and salad mixes. The packaging of these products involves washing and preparing produce from multiple farms, which significantly increases the risk of widespread contamination. “Contamination can spread across a much larger batch,” he pointed out, highlighting the potential dangers of these convenience products.

Precut fruits and vegetables also pose a similar risk. A protective outer skin typically prevents contamination, but once these items are cut, the interior flesh becomes exposed, creating the possibility for the parasite to adhere. Dr. Imtiaz warns that cross-contamination can easily occur during the cutting process, with any single contaminated piece being capable of affecting an entire batch.

Leafy greens, which grow close to the ground, are particularly vulnerable to parasitic infection, as they can come into contact with contaminated soil or irrigation water, both of which are common vehicles for Cyclospora oocyst contamination. Dr. Imtiaz notes that their texture, with numerous folds and irregular edges, provides ample hiding places for the parasite, making them a high-risk item in the current climate.

Fresh herbs, particularly basil and cilantro, have also emerged as significant contributors to cyclosporiasis outbreaks. With their intricate leaf structures, these herbs can harbour contaminants and are often consumed raw, further elevating the risk of infection. Dr. Imtiaz explains that cilantro has been the most commonly identified vehicle in previous U.S. outbreaks of cyclosporiasis.

Snow peas, known for being frequently eaten raw, are another item to be cautious of. Their smooth exterior may be deceptive, as Dr. Imtiaz notes that their seams can conceal parasite oocysts. Similarly, raspberries are highlighted for their unique vulnerability; their delicate, crevice-filled structure makes them difficult to clean thoroughly, providing ideal conditions for the parasite to thrive.

Mangoes, while seemingly an unlikely candidate due to their thick skin, should also be approached with caution. Imported from regions where the Cyclospora parasite is prevalent, their textured skin can trap contaminants that transfer to the flesh during preparation. Additionally, onions are on the radar, despite their papery skin being removed prior to consumption. Contaminants can still migrate to the inner layers through the peeling and chopping process.

Dr. Imtiaz recommends that individuals, particularly those at a higher risk of severe illness, opt for foods that have been cooked, canned, frozen, or peeled at home. These alternatives can provide necessary peace of mind while still allowing people to obtain the essential nutrients found in fruits and vegetables.

For those uncertain about safe food choices, Dr. Imtiaz suggests a common thread among the identified high-risk items: they are typically consumed raw or with minimal cooking, may harbour surfaces that can trap parasites, and often originate from regions prone to fecal contamination of water and soil. By adhering to these guidelines, consumers can better navigate the current outbreak while continuing to enjoy the benefits of fresh produce.