UAE markets free of lettuce products linked to Cyclosporiasis outbreak, says ministry

The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) has affirmed that the UAE markets are free of lettuce products linked to the Cyclosporiasis outbreak, noting that it is maintaining regular co-ordination with health and regulatory authorities to monitor and inspect incoming shipments.

In a tweet on the X platform, MOCCAE said it was continuing to monitor international alerts and follow up on ongoing investigations into potential sources of contamination in fresh produce, particularly lettuce imported from central Mexico.

It added that it was also working with regulatory bodies to ensure the safety of food products sold in the markets and to implement preventative measures to guarantee the highest safety standards.

MOCCAE urged the public to continue following healthy practices such as washing fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consuming them and purchasing from approved outlets in order to enhance the food safety and public health system.

Fresh lettuce was recently linked to a widespread outbreak of cyclosporiasis in several US states, caused by a microscopic parasite called Cyclospora cayetanensis, which contaminates agricultural products through irrigation or washing water.

The parasite is not transmitted directly from one person to another but through contaminated food or water. It affects the small intestine and leads to digestive disorders, while its symptoms include severe watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue and weight loss. Symptoms often appear a week after eating contaminated food.

A few days ago, the US state of Michigan recorded two deaths after they contracted cyclosporiasis. A test conducted by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) linked the outbreak, which spread to nine states, to a type of lettuce imported from Taylor Farms in central Mexico, but authorities are still searching for other possible sources.