USA Today is reporting a poll claiming, “36% of Taco Bell’s best customers — those who eat there once a month or even daily — say that after the recent illnesses, they now eat at Taco Bell less often, or not at all.”

Taco Bell President Greg Creed said Taco Bell did its own poll and, “94% of people who describe themselves as Taco Bell eaters have a “positive” view of the brand; 82% believe the food is “safe.” Creed says sales are improving.

“”This is a bigger issue than Taco Bell,” Creed says. It’s an ingredient issue, he says, and Taco Bell will seek better industry testing in the field, “before it comes to our restaurant.” The outbreak could have happened to anyone, he says. “It’s not like we did anything wrong.”

We’ll have the #2 with no lettuce, thanks. —MEGHANN MARCO

Taco Bell turns onto ‘recovery’ road [USA Today]