Food safety is foundational to consumer trust, and nowhere is that more evident than the fresh perimeter of the store. As federal officials continue investigating the current multistate Cyclospora outbreak linked to shredded iceberg lettuce served at select restaurant locations, retailers and manufacturers should stay informed while reinforcing the food safety practices that protect customers every day. 

While this investigation continues to evolve, there is currently no evidence implicating dairy products, deli meats, cheeses, or bakery products. However, because fresh produce is frequently incorporated into deli prepared foods, sandwiches, grab-and-go meals, salads, and foodservice offerings, perimeter departments should remain vigilant. 

What We Know Today 

Federal health officials continue to investigate a multistate outbreak of Cyclospora illnesses associated with shredded iceberg lettuce. 

As part of the investigation, a voluntary recall of certain iceberg lettuce products remains in effect. On July 19, FDA announced that a previously reported positive laboratory test for Cyclospora in a lettuce sample was determined to be a false positive after further review. Despite that finding, FDA continues to rely on epidemiological and traceback evidence linking the outbreak to iceberg lettuce, and the agency's investigation remains ongoing.  

At this time, no IDDBA-specific product categories, including dairy products, bakery products, cheeses, or deli meats, have been implicated. 

Why This Matters for the Fresh Perimeter 

Although the current investigation centers on fresh produce, perimeter departments routinely prepare ready-to-eat foods that include raw ingredients. Strong food safety systems, supplier verification, and traceability remain essential. 

Retail deli operations should pay particular attention to: 

• Prepared salads 

• Sandwiches and wraps 

• Grab-and-go meals 

• Salad bars 

• Fresh garnishes 

• Any recipes incorporating shredded lettuce or leafy greens 

Manufacturers supplying fresh prepared foods should likewise review ingredient sourcing, traceability, and supplier communications. 

Actions Retailers and Manufacturers Should Take 

Review Supplier Communications 

Confirm suppliers are actively monitoring FDA guidance and notify you immediately if products become affected. 

Verify Traceability 

Ensure lot codes, receiving records, and distribution documentation are current and easily accessible should traceback activities expand. 

Reinforce Produce Handling Practices 

Continue following established procedures for receiving, storing, washing (when appropriate), preparing, and handling fresh produce while minimizing cross-contamination with ready-to-eat foods. 

Review Sanitation Programs 

Although Cyclospora is not easily eliminated through routine sanitizers alone, maintaining robust cleaning and sanitizing programs remains critical for overall food safety and prevention of cross-contamination. 

Prepare for Rapid Response 

Should FDA identify additional products or retail distribution channels, be prepared to: 

• Remove affected products immediately 

• Follow supplier and regulatory guidance 

• Document product disposition 

• Communicate promptly with employees and customers 

Considerations by Department 

Deli 

Because deli departments frequently prepare ready-to-eat foods containing fresh produce, teams should verify ingredient sourcing, review current inventory, and ensure proper handling procedures are consistently followed. 

Bakery 

Most bakery products are not directly affected. However, bakeries producing sandwiches, fresh meal solutions, salads, or grab-and-go items should review any produce ingredients used in finished products. 

Dairy & Specialty Cheese 

The current investigation does not involve dairy products. Departments should continue standard food safety practices while monitoring supplier communications, particularly for products merchandised alongside prepared fresh foods. 

Communicating with Customers 

Consumers may have questions as media coverage increases. Teams should communicate factual, current information: 

• Public health agencies continue investigating. 

• There is currently no nationwide retail grocery recall related to this outbreak. 

• Stores are actively monitoring suppliers and regulatory guidance. 

• Customers seeking the latest information should consult FDA and CDC updates. 

IDDBA Will Continue Monitoring 

IDDBA is actively monitoring developments and will share updates as new information becomes available. Food safety is a shared responsibility across the fresh food supply chain, and staying informed is one of the most effective ways to protect consumers and maintain confidence in the perimeter departments.