California Leafy Greens Marketing Agreement Shares: California Grown Lettuce and Leafy Greens Not Linked to Cyclospora Outbreak

SALINAS, CA - The California Leafy Greens Marketing Agreement is addressing concerns surrounding the ongoing Cyclospora outbreak and the safety of domestic produce. In a recent blog post written by April Ward, the organization explains why California-grown lettuce and leafy greens have not been linked to the outbreak and outlines safeguards in place across the state’s industry.

With the ongoing Cyclospora outbreak, many consumers, restaurants, and grocery stores are concerned about the safety of their produce and its origin. The California LGMA would like to assure the public that California lettuce and leafy greens are in full production and are not associated with the ongoing outbreak.

Why California Lettuce is at Low Risk for Cyclospora Contamination

We have created a Cyclospora Fact Sheet to help everyone in the supply chain better understand why lettuce and leafy greens from California LGMA members are a low-risk commodity for Cyclospora contamination. Please take a few moments to review and share.

We Work Continuously to Ensure Food Grown in California Remains the Safest in the Country

"Food safety is essential to consumer health and trust, and the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) takes our role seriously. We know the repercussions can be significant, both for those who get ill and their families, as well as on business operations and local economies. Through the leadership of CDFA’s Inspection Services Division, with our state and federal partners, the Leafy Green Marketing Agreement, and other industry stakeholders, thousands of audits and farm inspections happen each year. We also participate in education events, research projects, and work groups to continually improve food safety programs, support farming practice adoption, and ensure food grown in California remains the safest in the country," said Karen Ross, Secretary, California Department of Food and Agriculture.

California farmers supply over 65% of the Nation’s lettuce from May until November

U.S. FDA and U.S. CDC have reported that many of the Cyclospora cases were linked to iceberg lettuce grown in Central Mexico. Based on the data below, California is currently the primary supplier for the nation:

• Market Dominance: California LGMA members produce an estimated 78% of iceberg lettuce in the U.S. each year.
• Domestic Production: USDA estimates that in 2022, 85% of iceberg lettuce in the U.S. was produced domestically.
• Seasonal Shift: USDA notes that from April to mid–October, production shifts primarily to Central California.