Cyclospora Outbreak Response Guide for Food Co-ops

Immediate Containment and Product Actions

The moment you receive notice of a Cyclospora outbreak potentially linked to your co-op, isolate all suspect product immediately. Cyclospora typically contaminated fresh produce—particularly berries, leafy greens, and imported vegetables—during growing or packing. Remove affected items from shelves and point-of-sale inventory, quarantine them in a separate area, and ensure staff know not to restock or sell them. Document the product lot numbers, supplier names, packaging dates, and any remaining quantity. Contact your supplier immediately for traceability information and request their recall documentation from the FDA or CDC.

Staff Notification and Health Department Coordination

Notify your store manager, produce team, and customer service staff immediately about the outbreak and which products are affected. Provide clear, factual guidance without speculation—staff are your frontline communicators and need accurate information to answer customer questions. Contact your local health department (not federal agencies directly) to report the outbreak and request guidance on notification scope and timelines. The health department will advise whether a public notice is required under state law. Keep detailed records of all communications with health officials, including dates, names of officials contacted, and advice given. Do not delay this notification; health departments prioritize Cyclospora cases because of its severity and transmissibility.

Customer Communication and Documentation

Prepare a clear, factual customer notice that identifies the product, lot codes, purchase dates, and symptoms of Cyclospora infection (severe diarrhea, fatigue, loss of appetite, starting 7-10 days after consumption). Include instructions for affected customers to contact their healthcare provider or poison control, and direct them to your co-op's customer service line for refunds or product replacement. Post notices at point-of-sale, email your customer database if you maintain records, and update your website and social media. Maintain a comprehensive outbreak log documenting all actions taken, dates, communications, and affected inventory counts. This documentation protects your co-op legally and helps the CDC or FDA if they launch a traceback investigation. Retain all supplier invoices, traceability records, and health department correspondence for at least one year.

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