Lettuce-linked Cyclospora outbreak chills salad sales, signaling a possible rebound ahead

New Numerator data show a July cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to lettuce and salad greens caused more than 26 million U.S. households to cut salad purchases in the month ending July 26, with over 6.5 million pulling back on salad kits; recalls and supplier withdrawals (Marketside iceberg lettuce, Taylor Farms) accompanied a decline in overall salad spending and fast-food salad trips, though about 82% of those who paused purchases say they expect to return once the outbreak is contained, suggesting a potential rebound.