DC Consumers Turn to Local Farms as Cyclospora Concerns Rise

Rising cyclospora/cyclosporiasis concerns across the U.S. drive more DC-area shoppers to buy locally from farms and markets like Kinship Gardens and The People’s Market. With a record number of cases in more than 30 states and an outbreak linked to shredded iceberg lettuce from Taco Bell in five states, health officials are urging consumers to source produce from trusted local suppliers while the FDA investigates. Local vendors report growing demand, highlighting the safety and freshness of nearby farms and delivery networks, including upcoming markets such as Black + Forth in Northeast DC.