# Food Safety Experts Are Avoiding These Foods Amid the Cyclosporiasis Outbreak
Cyclosporiasis, a parasitic infection spread through contaminated food and water, is prompting food safety experts to recommend caution around certain produce items. The outbreak has raised concerns among families planning meals and grocery shopping.
Cyclosporiasis comes from Cyclospora cayetanensis, a parasite that causes severe gastrointestinal illness. Symptoms include watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, bloating, and cramping that can last weeks without treatment. The infection spreads when people consume food or water contaminated with the parasite's oocysts, which develop in soil or water over several days.
Food safety officials typically trace cyclosporiasis outbreaks to fresh produce, particularly leafy greens, berries, and herbs grown in areas with inadequate water sanitation. Previous outbreaks have been linked to cilantro, basil, lettuce, and imported raspberries. The parasite thrives in warm climates and affects produce from Central and South America during certain seasons.
The CDC and FDA monitor cyclosporiasis cases nationwide. During active outbreaks, experts recommend washing all produce thoroughly under running water, though this doesn't guarantee removal of Cyclospora oocysts. Cooking produce to 160-170 degrees Fahrenheit kills the parasite. Vulnerable populations, including young children, elderly adults, and people with weakened immune systems, face higher risk of severe infection.
Families should stay informed about current outbreak advisories from the CDC website. Local health departments provide real-time warnings about contaminated products. When outbreaks occur, temporarily avoiding high-risk produce like fresh herbs and imported berries offers protection.
Treatment involves antibiotics like trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Without treatment