The thought of parasites in your food might make you squirm, but they are a reality we must all be wary of.
An outbreak of the parasite Cyclospora in the US, with most cases being reported in Michigan, is a stark reminder of how quickly parasites can spread, even in developed nations.
Michigan health officials have identified lettuce and salad greens as a potential vector for the parasite, since it is transmitted by food and water contaminated by feces.
This particular food source has not been confirmed; the outbreak may yet be linked to other food sources. Nor have authorities named any particular grower or supplier.
But bagged salad greens are often a likely culprit in foodborne parasite outbreaks, because they’re mainly eaten raw, and there are multiple stages in the production process where contamination can occur.
