Scammers targeting restaurants in midst of Cyclospora outbreak

In the midst of a nationwide Cyclospora outbreak, restaurateurs are dealing with yet another problem: scammers.

Pelican’s Landing at Cedar Mills Marina in Gordonville has been a target for just such a scam. Chef and Manager Charles Sellars received several phone calls from individuals impersonating produce retailers.

According to Sellars, one caller said he was representing U.S. Foods and wanted to Sellers to access a website with a supplied code and it would send Sellars a list of recalled food items.

Luckily, Sellars recognized that such a phone call from a vendor is highly unusual and didn’t fall for the trick. After all, food vendors like Ben E. Keith and U.S. Foods have a specific chain of communication that directs the buyer through text or email.

Scams like the one Sellar avoided direct the buyer to enter a false code into a website, allowing the caller to steal personal and payment information. In addition to information theft, the scam could cause restaurants to throw away food that is perfectly safe to eat.

Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that infects the small intestine. People become infected by swallowing food or water contaminated with the parasite. Common sources include leafy greens, fresh herbs, fresh vegetables and berries.

The recent outbreak (one of the largest ever recorded) has resulted in more than 18,000 confirmed and suspected cases nationwide. Linked primarily to iceburg lettuce sourced from central Mexico, the lettuce was then distributed and sold at 
retail, prompting recalls beginning in mid-July.

While the outbreak seems to be slowing down, the FDA continues to investigate additional Cyclospora outbreaks that may involve other foods.

As for Pelican’s Landing, Sellars said he wants restaurateurs to be aware of this scam during an already troubling time for those in the food industry.