Gallucci’s Italian Foods Drops Raw Lettuce Amid Parasite Outbreak, Updates Menu

Gallucci’s Italian Foods pulls raw lettuce and revamps its menu as a cyclosporiasis outbreak hits Ohio. Here’s what Cleveland food lovers need to know.

Cleveland’s beloved Gallucci’s Italian Foods isn’t taking any chances with your lunch. In response to a region-wide cyclospora parasite outbreak tied to fresh produce—including right here in Ohio—the iconic shop has shelved raw lettuce in its prepared foods, swapping it out for some creative new menu stars.

Why Gallucci’s Made the Switch

You know things are serious when a staple like Gallucci’s puts the brakes on their famous salads. The move comes as health officials point to a spike in cyclosporiasis, a gastrointestinal bug wreaking havoc across Ohio and neighboring states. Lettuce and other fresh greens have been flagged as likely culprits, so Gallucci’s is side-stepping risk while keeping Clevelanders well-fed.

The plan? Hit pause on raw lettuce until the CDC and FDA get to the bottom of the outbreak. Don’t worry: you’re not stuck with sad desk lunches—Gallucci’s has introduced plenty of fresh, Italian-style alternatives.

What’s on the New Menu at Gallucci’s

With lettuce off the table (literally), Gallucci’s is leaning into its Mediterranean roots and laid-back Cleveland ingenuity. Here’s what you can dig into while the investigation continues:

• Classic Italian favorites—think pasta dishes loaded with bold flavors
• Grain bowls with roasted veggies for a hearty, lettuce-free bite
• Pasta salads with all the zesty goodness, minus the leafy greens
• Roasted vegetable platters packed with everything from eggplant to sweet peppers

The kitchen’s focus? Peace of mind and plenty of comfort—plus that signature Gallucci’s flavor you trust.

What Is Cyclospora, Anyway?

Cyclospora might sound like a villain in a sci-fi flick, but here in Cleveland it’s a microscopic parasite that sometimes tags along on fresh produce. If you get it, the main symptom is (brace yourself) “explosive, watery diarrhea”—along with the usual hits: stomach cramps, nausea, and fatigue. Not exactly what you want post-lunch meeting.

Spotting symptoms a few days after eating contaminated food is common. So the safest bet right now is to steer clear of raw greens from questionable sources until the all-clear is given.

How to Stay Safe at Cleveland Restaurants

Beyond skipping raw lettuce, the CDC’s advice applies to home cooks and restaurant-goers alike:

• Wash hands before and after prepping any produce
• Rinse all fruits and veggies under running water—even if it says “pre-washed”
• Refrigerate cut or cooked produce quickly (within two hours)
• Scrub firmer produce like cucumbers or melons
• Chop away bruised or damaged spots

Gallucci’s commitment to customer safety is a smart reminder that a little caution goes a long way.

When Will the Lettuce Return?

Gallucci’s isn’t saying exactly when beloved salads and greens will pop back onto the menu, but they’re watching federal updates closely. Expect the lettuce hiatus to last until FDA and CDC investigators have wrapped up their work and produce is cleared for Cleveland plates.

Until then, you can chow down worry-free and support the city’s legendary Italian market—because Clevelanders know how to adapt, stay safe, and keep it delicious.

Let your lunch buddy know: Gallucci’s is still open, still cooking, and as committed to our community as ever. Buon appetito!