FDA says Taylor Farms Cyclospora finding was false positive

• The FDA initially reported on Saturday that Taylor Farms shredded iceberg lettuce tested positive for Cyclospora, a parasitic illness that has sickened thousands in the U.S.
• Laboratory experts conducted a re-review of the sample results and determined the positive finding should be considered a false positive
• As of July 19, 2026, there are no confirmed positive sample results for Cyclospora in the investigation

FDA Reverses Taylor Farms Cyclospora Finding, Declares False Positive

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced on July 19, 2026, that a previously reported positive test for Cyclospora in Taylor Farms' shredded iceberg lettuce was a false positive. Laboratory experts re-reviewed the sample results and determined the initial finding was inaccurate.

Key Details:

• As of July 19, 2026, there are no confirmed positive sample results for Cyclospora in Taylor Farms products
• The FDA had reported on Saturday, July 18, that a sample of shredded iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms tested positive for the parasitic illness
• The Cyclospora outbreak has sickened thousands of people across the United States
• Other major food chains, including Wendy's and Chipotle, have stated they are not affected by the cyclosporiasis outbreak

Market Implications:

This reversal is significant for Taylor Farms, a major produce supplier, as the initial positive test result likely raised food safety concerns among retailers and consumers. The false positive designation should help mitigate potential reputational damage and business disruption for the company.

The incident highlights the importance of accurate testing procedures in the food industry, where initial findings can have immediate commercial consequences. The FDA's swift re-evaluation and public correction may help restore confidence in Taylor Farms' products and prevent unnecessary supply chain disruptions.

This development is relevant for investors in the food retail and agriculture sectors, as Cyclospora outbreaks can significantly impact produce sales and supplier relationships. The clarification eliminates Taylor Farms as a confirmed source in the ongoing outbreak investigation.