Taco Bell removes lettuce over parasite outbreak in US states

Taco Bell has taken lettuce off its menu in several US states after health officials connected the vegetable to a parasitic illness called cyclosporiasis.

More than 3,300 cases have been reported in Michigan alone, and cases have appeared in at least 34 states. Over 140 people have needed hospital treatment. Health officials have found a strong link between cases in four Midwestern states: Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia, and Kentucky.

Taco Bell stopped using lettuce from one supplier and said it will find a replacement. US media have named the supplier as Taylor Farms, but Taco Bell has not confirmed this. Federal officials have also not officially identified the source. The company said it acted carefully after speaking with health authorities.