USDA Closes Key Parasite Research Lab | San Jose News

The USDA is shutting down BARC, a key research hub in Beltsville, Maryland, amid a major cyclospora outbreak affecting 1,600+ people across 34 states—with Michigan hit hardest. Scientists warn the closure could delay parasite research by a decade, as BARC was vital for detecting and combating foodborne threats like cyclospora and salmonella. Despite Congress funding the facility and its unique ability to grow hard-to-study parasites in labs, the USDA cites aging infrastructure and high renovation costs, planning to spread work across 90+ sites. Critics call the move shortsighted, especially as outbreaks rise and the produce industry relies on BARC’s expertise to keep our food safe. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/04e4858239673c57