MONTGOMERY, Ala. – The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI) is encouraging Alabama consumers to remain informed and practice safe food handling as federal and state public health officials continue to investigate a multistate outbreak of cyclosporiasis, an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. While no cases have currently been reported in Alabama, consumers are urged to continue practicing proper produce washing as part of their regular food safety routine.
“Food safety is our top priority, and safeguarding Alabama’s food supply is a responsibility we take seriously,” said Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate. “One of the best ways consumers can protect themselves is by purchasing fresh, Alabama-grown produce from trusted local farmers.”
Consumers can reduce their risk by following these food safety practices:
- Thoroughly wash fresh fruits and vegetables under clean, running water before eating, cutting, or cooking.
- Refrigerate perishable foods promptly.
- Wash hands, utensils, cutting boards, and food preparation surfaces before and after handling fresh produce.
- Separate fresh produce from raw meat, poultry, seafood and other foods that may cause cross-contamination.
- Stay informed about food recalls and public health advisories.
ADAI’s Produce Safety Program plays a critical role in helping prevent foodborne illness outbreaks by working directly with Alabama growers to ensure safe production practices are followed. Through education, on-farm assessments and implementation of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule, the program helps farmers identify and reduce potential risks related to water quality, worker hygiene, equipment sanitation and handling practices. By supporting growers in meeting these standards, ADAI helps ensure that fresh fruits and vegetables grown in Alabama are handled safely from the field to the consumer.
Cyclospora infections are commonly associated with the consumption of contaminated fresh produce, including leafy greens, herbs, berries and other fruits and vegetables. Symptoms may appear several days to two weeks after exposure and can include prolonged watery diarrhea, loss of appetite, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue, bloating and weight loss. Individuals experiencing these symptoms should contact their healthcare provider, especially if symptoms are severe or persistent.
At this time, the majority of the outbreak remains in the northeastern part of the U.S., and no deaths have been reported.
Consumers are encouraged to monitor the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for the latest information regarding the ongoing investigation and food safety recommendations:
Latest CDC Cyclospora Information can be found at: CDC Cyclospora Surveillance Updates.
ADAI will continue working with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Alabama Department of Public Health to monitor this situation and provide updates as additional information becomes available.