Restaurants in the area that rely heavily on lettuce are facing challenges due to rising prices and a recent outbreak. Lettuce prices increased significantly in the first half of 2026, largely because of hot weather in Arizona, a major lettuce-producing state. A cyclospora outbreak linked to shredded lettuce has also had an impact, with thousands of Americans affected.

The outbreak has been tied to several states, including some in the Midwest. Further details on the outbreak and its effects on local restaurants can be found through KSTP 5 Eyewitness News.