The Cyclospora Mystery: How Human Poop Got on So Much Lettuce
Summary
This episode examines the largest cyclospora outbreak in U.S. history, linked to Taylor Farms iceberg lettuce from Mexico. Reporters Christina Jewett and Caroline Hopkins Legaspi discuss how the parasite spreads, why recalls failed due to opaque supply chains, and systemic flaws in FDA oversight. They highlight underfunded state health departments and criticize federal inaction, noting the outbreak has sickened thousands and caused two deaths.
Topics discussed
Intro: Host's illness and Cyclospora outbreak overview
Guests join and discuss the scale of the outbreak
Cyclospora biology and tracing the source to Taylor Farms
Suspected contamination in Mexico and pre-washed lettuce risks
Confusing recall codes and trade secret issues
FDA inspection gaps and reliance on self-policing
Difficulty testing for Cyclospora and industry incentives
Government communication failures and shifting inspection duties
Conclusion: When will the outbreak end?
Outro: Times app promo and Michigan Senate primary results
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