Investigators traced the source to iceberg lettuce grown in central Mexico and sold by Taylor Farms. The company recalled the lettuce, and FDA officials said all recalled product has been removed from the market.

The FDA also announced that it has finished on‑site inspections and stopped collecting samples at the Mexican lettuce growers and processing facility. Samples taken during those visits are still being analyzed.

Experts note that contamination can occur when produce is grown in soil or comes into contact with water polluted by human feces. Ellen Shumaker, director of outreach for the Safe Plates program at North Carolina State University, explained this risk.

The outbreak has drawn attention to a broader issue: U.S. regulators are carrying out fewer international inspections than before, reducing the chances of catching contaminated produce before it reaches American tables.

The case shows why strong overseas checks are essential for protecting public health.