Taco Bell is under investigation as a cyclospora parasite outbreak spreads across the United States, causing explosive diarrhea and other severe symptoms.
According to The Washington Post, health officials are focusing on leafy lettuce as the leading suspect, though other food items have not been ruled out.
Michigan has reported more than 2,600 cases, and at least 30 states are seeing elevated illness numbers.
Nationwide, over 80 people have been hospitalized.
The chain recently removed several fresh ingredients—including lettuce, pico de gallo, guacamole, and its cilantro-onion blend—from some locations while the investigation continues.
A person familiar with the national probe told The Washington Post that Taco Bell's decision to pull those items was appropriate.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the parasite infects the intestines, leading to watery diarrhea and frequent explosive bowel movements.
As investigators work to identify the source, customers may want to reconsider late-night visits for now.
