Foodborne Illnesses Are Up Across US: Which To Look Out For
Summary
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reports a rise in foodborne illness outbreaks in 2026, with 21 investigations already underway, close to the total numbers in previous full years. The most common causes of these illnesses are bacteria and parasites including Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria, and Cyclospora, which can cause serious health problems.Key Facts
- The FDA has started 21 foodborne illness outbreak investigations in 2026, nearing past full-year totals (26 in both 2024 and 2025).
- Foodborne illnesses can cause severe symptoms and may require hospitalization.
- Salmonella is the leading cause of outbreaks, present in about 40% of cases since 2020.
- E. coli is the second most common cause, linked to roughly 20% of outbreaks.
- Listeria and Cyclospora are also significant causes, making up 18% and 13% of investigations respectively.
- Common sources of infection include contaminated food like undercooked beef, unpasteurized dairy, fresh produce, and ready-to-eat meats.
- Symptoms vary but often include diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever, and sometimes more serious complications such as kidney issues.
- CDC investigations suggest a higher risk to consumers from contaminated foods in 2026 compared to previous years.
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