Jul 17, 2026
About this episode:
A parasite that can cause severe gastrointestinal discomfort is sickening people across the country. While cyclosporiasis cases are common in summer months, recent outbreaks in states like Michigan have far exceeded typical numbers. In this episode: Food safety expert David Acheson talks about how cyclosporiasis differs from other foodborne illnesses and the importance of a strong public health system for catching contaminants like this. Note: This episode was recorded on July 15, just before the investigation identified lettuce from Taylor Farms, the supplier to Taco Bell, as the culprit.
Guest:
Dr. David Acheson is the President & CEO of The Acheson Group Consulting Company. With more than 40 years of medical and food safety experience, Acheson has served in prominent roles at the FDA and the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service.
Host:
Dr. Josh Sharfstein is distinguished professor of the practice in Health Policy and Management, a pediatrician, and former secretary of Maryland’s Health Department. He served as the Baltimore City Commissioner of Health from 2005 to 2009.
Show links and related content:
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Lettuce at Taco Bell in 5 states confirmed as source of a diarrhea-causing parasite outbreak—AP
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The outbreak that changed meat and poultry inspection systems worldwide—Animal Frontiers
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Peanut Outlook: Impacts of the 2008-09 Foodborne Illness Outbreak Linked to Salmonella in Peanuts—USDA
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What’s Behind All the Food Recalls—Public Health On Call (November 2024)
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Note: These podcasts are a conversation between the participants, and do not represent the position of Johns Hopkins University.