Exploring Past and Present Foodborne Illness Outbreaks

Recent investigations into cyclospora and salmonella outbreaks, affecting numerous states, have caught national attention. By August 4, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 10,468 lab-confirmed cases of cyclosporiasis since May 1, linked to Taylor Farms iceberg lettuce from Mexico. There have been over 12,255 unconfirmed cases, with many occurring in Michigan, where two fatalities were reported.

Simultaneously, jalapeño peppers from Mexico were identified as the source of at least 345 salmonella cases across 27 states. Over three dozen individuals required hospitalization, leading major Mexican food chains, Chipotle and Qdoba, to remove jalapeños from their menus.

Historical Foodborne Illness Outbreaks

Though current outbreaks are concerning, they have been less deadly than some historic incidents. Here are a few significant past outbreaks:

Contaminated Oysters (1924)

An outbreak of typhoid fever caused by Salmonella Typhi in oysters resulted in 150 deaths and around 1,500 illnesses. The oysters, distributed by a New York company, led to the establishment of the National Shellfish Sanitation Program.

Mexican-style Cheese (1985)

In Los Angeles County, soft Mexican cheese made with unpasteurized milk caused an outbreak affecting 142 people, including many pregnant women and children. The outbreak resulted in 28 deaths and was traced to Jalisco Mexican Products Inc.

Jack in the Box (1992-1993)

An E. coli outbreak from undercooked hamburgers at Jack in the Box led to four children’s deaths and sickened over 700 people across several states. The CDC traced the contamination to multiple slaughter plants, prompting changes in U.S. regulatory practices.

Schwan’s Ice Cream (1994)

A salmonella outbreak affecting an estimated 224,000 people was linked to ice cream from Schwan’s Company. Tanker trailers that previously carried contaminated liquid eggs were identified as the source.

E. coli in Spinach (2006)

An E. coli outbreak traced to fresh spinach infected 199 people across 26 states. Contamination originated from a field in California adjacent to cattle grazing land, as confirmed by the USDA.

Peanut Butter (2008-09)

Salmonella-contaminated peanut butter led to nine deaths and the illness of hundreds. Former CEO Stewart Parnell received a 28-year prison sentence following his conviction on charges, including fabricating safety certificates.

Contaminated Cantaloupes (2011)

A listeriosis outbreak linked to cantaloupes resulted in 33 deaths and 147 illnesses. The melons came from Jensen Farms, Colorado, where owners failed to wash them properly, leading to widespread contamination.