Fresh Herb Warning: Cilantro and Parsley Investigated in Rising Cyclosporiasis Cases

North Carolina Health Officials Examine Possible Link Between Popular Herbs and Parasite Infections

Health officials are investigating whether commonly used fresh herbs, including cilantro and parsley, may be contributing to a recent increase in cyclosporiasis cases reported across the United States. While investigators have not confirmed these herbs as the cause of the illnesses, North Carolina public health experts say these ingredients have appeared repeatedly during interviews with people who became sick.

Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by the parasite Cyclospora cayetanensis. The parasite can spread when people consume contaminated food or water. In recent weeks, cases of the illness have increased significantly, prompting state and federal health agencies to examine possible sources of contamination.

According to North Carolina officials, interviews with infected individuals have repeatedly highlighted cilantro and parsley as ingredients that appeared in meals consumed before symptoms developed.

Carl Williams, North Carolina’s state public health veterinarian, explained during a July 21 briefing that investigators ask patients detailed questions about the foods they recently ate. When people mention restaurant meals, health officials review the individual ingredients rather than only focusing on the complete dish.

“This ingredient-level analysis” has shown that parsley and cilantro continue to appear frequently in reports from affected individuals. However, officials emphasized that repeated mentions do not prove that the herbs are responsible for causing infections.

Cyclosporiasis Cases Increase Across the United States

The recent rise in cyclosporiasis cases has affected numerous states. Health authorities have reported cases in 41 states, with infection numbers much higher than what is typically expected.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has received reports of thousands of laboratory-confirmed cases. In addition, health officials are aware of many additional suspected infections that have not yet been confirmed through laboratory testing.

The increase has led federal agencies to investigate multiple possible outbreaks. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is currently examining several Cyclospora outbreaks and has identified a possible source in at least one investigation involving shredded iceberg lettuce.

That lettuce was connected to products served at Taco Bell locations and sold through Walmart under the Marketside label. A recall was issued for affected products, and consumers were advised not to eat recalled packages with specific best-by dates.

Although lettuce has been identified as a possible source in one outbreak investigation, federal agencies have not officially named cilantro or parsley as confirmed causes of the current nationwide increase.

Why Fresh Herbs Can Become a Food Safety Concern

Fresh herbs are often eaten raw or added to meals after cooking, which means any contamination present on the surface may remain until consumption. Unlike foods that are cooked at high temperatures, raw herbs do not always go through a process that can eliminate harmful microorganisms.

Cyclospora contamination usually occurs when produce comes into contact with materials contaminated by human waste. This can happen during growing, harvesting, processing, transportation, or preparation.

Cilantro has previously been linked to cyclosporiasis outbreaks. Past investigations have identified fresh cilantro as a possible source of infection, including an outbreak reported in Alabama in 2023.

Because herbs are frequently used as garnishes or ingredients in salads, sauces, and restaurant dishes, identifying contamination sources can be challenging. Investigators often need to compare food histories from many patients to find common ingredients.

Health Officials Recommend Caution With Certain Produce

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has advised residents to take additional precautions when preparing certain types of produce. Officials recommend considering cooking or avoiding ingredients that have been associated with increased Cyclospora cases in the state.

These recommendations include foods such as lettuce, parsley, and cilantro while investigations continue.

Health experts also recommend basic food safety practices to reduce the risk of illness. Consumers should wash their hands before and after handling fresh produce, rinse fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and remove damaged or bruised sections before eating or preparing food.

While washing produce can help remove dirt and some contaminants, it does not always eliminate all harmful organisms. Proper handling, storage, and cooking when appropriate remain important steps for reducing foodborne illness risks.

Investigations Continue as Officials Search for the Source

Health agencies continue working to determine why cyclosporiasis cases have increased and whether specific foods are responsible for the rise.

Officials in Michigan, another state reporting a significant number of cases, have indicated that lettuce or other salad greens may be connected to the outbreak there. However, investigators are still collecting information and analyzing possible food sources.

Foodborne illness investigations often require time because health officials must compare patient interviews, laboratory results, supply chain information, and food distribution records before identifying a confirmed source.

Until a specific cause is confirmed, experts encourage consumers to remain aware of food safety recommendations without avoiding all fresh produce.

What Consumers Should Know About Cyclosporiasis Symptoms

Cyclosporiasis primarily affects the digestive system. Symptoms may include frequent watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, loss of appetite, and fatigue. Some people may experience symptoms that come and go over several weeks.

The illness can be more serious for individuals with weakened immune systems or other health concerns. Anyone experiencing persistent diarrhea or signs of dehydration should seek medical advice.

Healthcare providers can diagnose cyclosporiasis through laboratory testing and may prescribe medication to treat the infection.

Staying Safe While Eating Fresh Produce

Fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs are an important part of a healthy diet, and consumers do not need to eliminate them completely. Instead, following safe food preparation habits can help reduce risks.

Helpful steps include:

• Washing hands before preparing food
• Cleaning produce under running water
• Separating fresh produce from raw meat and seafood
• Refrigerating perishable foods promptly
• Cooking ingredients when recommended by health officials
• Paying attention to food recalls and public health alerts

As investigations continue, health officials will provide updates if a specific food source is confirmed.

Sources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) information on cyclosporiasis and food safety guidance.
• U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) outbreak investigations and food recall announcements.
• North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services public statements regarding current cyclosporiasis investigations.
• The Epoch Times, July 24, 2026.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Food safety investigations can change as new evidence becomes available. Readers should follow guidance from official health agencies and consult a healthcare professional for questions about symptoms, diagnosis, or treatment.