Salad and Go Closes Locations Amid Cyclospora Outbreak Concerns

The fast-food chain Salad and Go is shutting down all its locations due to bankruptcy following a Cyclospora outbreak that has affected thousands across the United States. The outbreak, although not directly linked to the company, has impacted industry confidence and compounded challenges for Salad and Go.

Company Background

Salad and Go opened in Gilbert, Arizona, in 2013. It operates 70 drive-thru spots in Arizona and Nevada. Despite increased demand pressures and rising costs, Salad and Go emphasized that it did not use lettuce involved in the outbreak, nor did it procure ingredients from implicated suppliers. The company had previously closed operations in Texas and Oklahoma to concentrate efforts in Arizona.

Cyclospora Outbreak

Cyclospora, a parasite, leads to cyclosporiasis, a gastrointestinal disease. Since May 1, Michigan and Ohio reported the highest cases. Michigan health officials acknowledged two deaths linked to the outbreak, with underlying health issues possibly exacerbated by cyclosporiasis and dehydration.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are 10,468 laboratory-confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis, with an additional 12,255 cases under review. The CDC suggests that reported figures may underestimate actual infections due to diagnoses delays and reporting processes.

Iceberg Lettuce Connection

The outbreak is linked to iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms. Taco Bell restaurants in several states had served lettuce traced back to the outbreak. On July 17, Taco Bell removed the affected lettuce. Taylor Farms expanded its recall of lettuce grown in Mexico distributed to 27 states. Federal authorities continue to investigate other potential connections to the illnesses.

When ingested, Cyclospora causes intestinal illness, known for frequent and sometimes explosive bowel movements.

This is an active investigation with more information anticipated.