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Does vinegar kill cyclospora? Answering your questions about produce safety
The FDA says washing can remove Cyclospora, but cooking produce to 158 degrees Fahrenheit is the only reliable way to kill it.
The FDA stated Sunday that test results linking a cyclospora outbreak to iceberg lettuce from central Mexico were a false positive. While Taylor Farms' voluntary recall stands out of an "abundance of caution," no confirmed positive samples exist.
While Taylor Farms keeps its recall in place, Americans continue to eye leafy greens with suspicion. The investigation remains ongoing as no single source has been identified, with symptoms appearing two to 14 days after exposure.
Vinegar won't kill the parasite, but washing produce can help remove it. Experts recommend cooking produce to at least 158 degrees Fahrenheit, or 70 degrees Celsius, as the most effective method to kill cyclospora.
Experts recommend avoiding bagged salad mixes and kits because they undergo more handling during production. Past outbreaks linked to raspberries show the bumpy surface makes it easier for the parasite to lodge in nooks and crannies.
If severe diarrhea symptoms last more than three days, consult a healthcare provider, the FDA says. Cyclosporiasis can be treated with antibiotics, though dehydration from fluid loss remains a primary concern, according to the Cleveland Clinic.