FDA Reassures Public on Produce Safety, Issues New Guidance

The acting commissioner of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Kyle Diamantas, has moved to reassure the American public about the safety of fresh produce, even as federal agencies continue to investigate multiple foodborne illness outbreaks.

Speaking on Tuesday, Diamantas stated that consumers should feel confident eating fresh produce, including leafy greens. He noted that the FDA believes all iceberg lettuce tied to the ongoing cyclospora outbreak has been effectively removed from the market following a recall on July 17.

The cyclospora outbreak, which has been linked to lettuce from Taylor Farms, has affected people across 15 states, with Michigan reporting the highest number of cases. The incident has also hurt consumer confidence and impacted sales at restaurants and supermarkets.

In a parallel move, the FDA has finalized new guidance for manufacturers and processors of fresh-cut produce, such as chopped lettuce, fruit salads, and shredded carrots. The recommendations focus on controlling biological hazards and include measures for sanitation, supplier verification, and refrigeration.

The guidance also addresses specific pathogens like salmonella, cyclospora, E. coli, and listeria. The FDA notes that while washing with antimicrobial solutions is helpful, cyclospora may require stricter supply-chain controls, as standard washing may not be fully effective against it.

While the Department of Health and Human Services declared on social media that the cyclospora situation is "contained," the FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) state that their investigation into the outbreak is still ongoing.

Separately, Taylor Farms announced a recall of prepared foods containing jalapenos over potential salmonella contamination. A company spokesperson said the firm is already in compliance with the FDA's new guidance and has long supported such safety measures.