Taco Bell Issues Apology on Notes App, Urging Customers to Return After Controversy

The recent outbreak of explosive diarrhea linked to the cyclospora parasite seems to have found its culprit. Investigators have identified a lettuce supplier for a popular fast-food chain, prompting the restaurant to urge customers to return. Their response has been dubbed the most unusual apology of the year.

“We want you to hear it from us,” the chain stated in a message shared online. “Your health and safety are our top priorities, and we have removed all affected lettuce from our locations. So feel free to enjoy your meal with us today.”

Since May, around 1,644 individuals have reportedly fallen ill due to cyclospora, with symptoms that quickly became a viral sensation online as “explosive diarrhea.” Recently, it was revealed that federal investigators were looking into the situation at locations in Michigan, where customers reported getting sick after consuming iceberg lettuce. The chain had already pulled the lettuce from its menu prior to any national recall announcement.

Health officials have examined 190 cases of cyclospora in Michigan, finding a strong connection to the fast-food chain. Reports indicated that the contaminated lettuce originated from a supplier named Taylor Farms, which in turn pointed fingers at one of its smaller independent suppliers. While no Taylor Farms-branded salads or kits were found to be tainted, all iceberg lettuce is being discarded as a precaution.

“As a family-owned business, we are genuinely concerned for those affected, their families, and the many customers whose trust in the safety of fresh produce has been compromised,” the company expressed in its own apology online. “This trust is something we’ve built over decades, and we are dedicated to restoring that confidence.”

Meanwhile, health authorities are advising people to avoid locations in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and West Virginia, as investigations into the outbreak continue. It seems we’re not completely in the clear yet. However, many customers appear undeterred.

“Explosive diarrhea has never stopped me from enjoying this fast-food chain before,” one user commented online. “It won’t start now.”