Taco Bell Draws Loyal Diners Despite Cyclospora Outbreak as Sales Rebound Halfway to Prior-Year Levels
Updated
Updated · The Washington Post · Jul 31
Taco Bell Draws Loyal Diners Despite Cyclospora Outbreak as Sales Rebound Halfway to Prior-Year Levels
3 articles · Updated · The Washington Post · Jul 31
Summary
Washington’s Chinatown Taco Bell stayed crowded this week even after a Cyclospora outbreak tied to lettuce sickened thousands, with regulars and deal-seekers still filling kiosks and tables.
Yum Brands said Taco Bell sales over the previous four days had recovered halfway to prior-year levels, though same-store sales remain down 2% so far in the July-September quarter.
Customers cited Taco Bell’s supplier switch, low prices and lettuce-free promotions — including $1 Enchiritos and a one-day $1 Mexican pizza offer — as reasons to keep ordering.
Some diners still voiced unease about lettuce and recalls linked to Taylor Farms, but many said outbreaks happen across the industry and were more focused on convenience, price and routine.