Key facts
- Two USDA cyclospora research projects at the Beltsville Agricultural Research Center have been shelved.
- Funding for these projects was not included in the FY2026 Agriculture Appropriations Act.
- The Trump administration cited high operating costs as a reason for overhauling research facilities.
- Experts worry the closure will hinder future research into foodborne pathogens like cyclospora.
- Over 17,000 people have been sickened by cyclospora this summer, according to the CDC.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is shelving two research projects focused on the parasite cyclospora at its Beltsville Agricultural Research Center (BARC) due to funding cuts from Congress. USDA officials are directing blame to lawmakers for not appropriating funds for the projects in the FY2026 Agriculture Appropriations Act, while also undergoing a broader relocation effort of research staff.
This move has raised concerns among scientists and public health advocates about the potential impact on the investigation and prevention of foodborne illnesses. Kalmia Kniel, a professor researching cyclospora at the University of Delaware, expressed frustration, stating that without the BARC facilities and models, research will be significantly slower. She noted that "we know so little" about the parasite.
The timing of these cuts is particularly concerning given the current public health landscape. This summer alone, over 17,000 people have fallen ill from cyclospora, according to the CDC. The FDA is actively investigating multiple outbreaks, including one that has affected more than 11,000 individuals across 20 states. While research might not prevent current outbreaks, it is crucial for identifying culprits faster and preventing future occurrences.
The Trump administration has previously stated that the BARC complex, a 6,500-acre facility studying nutrition, animal health, and food safety, was too expensive to maintain. USDA officials have maintained that the reorganization aims to place employees closer to the communities they serve and that research activities will continue without interruption. However, a USDA spokesperson confirmed that Congress did not allocate funds for the specific BARC projects, and the Agricultural Research Service is facilitating an orderly transition.