Overview

• An E. coli O157:H7 outbreak linked to romaine lettuce affected 15 states, hospitalizing dozens and causing one death between November 2024 and January 2025.
• The FDA closed its investigation in February 2025 without naming responsible firms or notifying the public, citing the absence of contaminated products in commerce.
• Nine lawsuits have been filed against Taylor Farms, alleging its lettuce caused the outbreak, though the company denies the claims.
• Critics, including former FDA officials, argue that staff cuts and policy delays under the Trump administration have undermined food safety transparency and public protection.
• The outbreak has reignited debates over regulatory practices, transparency, and the need for improved traceability in food safety management.