July 2026 Cyclospora Outbreak
July 20, 2026
The California Leafy Greens Marketing Agreement (LGMA) extends its sympathies to everyone affected by the current Cyclospora outbreak. Foodborne illness is a serious public health issue, and we appreciate the efforts of federal and state health officials to identify the source as quickly as possible.
According to the July 16 announcement by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the investigation has identified lettuce grown in Mexico as the likely source of this outbreak.
For nearly 20 years, California and Arizona leafy greens growers have operated under the LGMA, a food safety program established to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. The program requires growers to implement comprehensive, science-based food safety practices that are verified through regular government audits conducted by trained third-party inspectors.
"Food safety is our members' highest priority," said Tim York, CEO of the California Leafy Greens Marketing Agreement. "Every day, growers follow mandatory, science-based practices designed to reduce risk and protect consumers, and we remain committed to continuously strengthening those practices as new science becomes available."
California and Arizona produce approximately 90 percent of the lettuce consumed in the United States. The LGMA will continue working with growers, researchers and public health officials to strengthen food safety practices and help maintain consumer confidence in leafy greens.