In the spring and summer of 2018, Fresh Express and other fresh produce suppliers were linked to a Cyclospora cayetanensis outbreak — with U.S.-grown fresh produce samples testing positive for the parasite. To address this issue, Fresh Express formed the Blue-Ribbon Panel on the Prevention of Foodborne Cyclospora Outbreaks, comprising scientists with deep expertise in the biology of the organism, food safety, outbreak response, and public health. The panel was charged with studying the parasite and identifying controls to limit further C. cayetanensis– associated outbreaks. After a November 2018 in-person meeting, the Blue-Ribbon Panel formed four working groups that continued to work on C. cayetanensis specific issues related to root-cause assessment, preventive measures/controls, collaborative approach, and testing
validation over the next several months. This report contains the working groups’ preliminary findings, recommendations, and continuing priorities to more effectively prevent and control C. cayetanensis outbreaks going forward.
FoodWorld 