Transcript: Former FDA commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," July 26, 2026

Dr. Scott Gottlieb, former FDA commissioner and a board member of Pfizer and UnitedHealth, told “Face the Nation” on July 26, 2026 that the ongoing cyclospora outbreak is improving but “not under control yet.” He said FDA efforts have helped isolate sources to central Mexico and specific farms, noting that the parasite’s only known reservoir is human fecal matter, suggesting contamination tied to sewage affecting crops. Gottlieb said restaurants and retailers have cut off supplies from that region, lowering risk, but he cautioned that it’s not yet certain it’s the only source area. He also addressed why current FDA messaging may differ from his advice about buying whole lettuce rather than pre-chopped bags.