Chipotle Mexican Grill announced the removal of jalapeños from certain restaurants. The decision came after a potential link to a salmonella outbreak detected by public health officials.
In a brief statement, Chipotle emphasized its commitment to the health and safety of guests and employees. Therefore, the company acted out of caution by swapping jalapeños with those from other growers where the initial lot was distributed.
The original source of the jalapeños remains unspecified. However, these peppers reached multiple states and various retailers.
The Minnesota Department of Health confirmed an investigation into a salmonella outbreak linked to various Mexican-style quick-service eateries. Jalapeños are suspected as the source, with 110 cases identified in Minnesota. Chipotle was prominent among those affected, as many consumers had dined there between mid-June and mid-July, though not exclusively.
The senior epidemiologist supervisor in the Minnesota Department of Health’s Foodborne Diseases Unit, Carlota Medus, stated, “Based on all the evidence so far, the food that made people sick was served at other restaurants as well.”
Medus noted Chipotle’s cooperation during the investigation. Given the safety measures enacted, her department holds no current concerns about the chain. Nonetheless, she warns that the outbreak’s status remains uncertain, suggesting other locations might still be serving contaminated food.
Other states participate in the investigation. On a federal scale, the Food and Drug Administration is leading a traceback probe, including but not limited to jalapeños. This was initiated on July 22 following salmonella illness clusters identified by state and the CDC.
The FDA appreciated Chipotle’s support and plans to update the public with any actionable health information. The CDC did not comment further.
Typical symptoms of salmonella infection include diarrhea, fever, vomiting, dehydration, and stomach cramps. Most people recover within a week, although young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems might require hospitalization.
Chipotle has experienced significant outbreaks before, particularly between 2015 and 2018, with E. coli, norovirus, and food poisoning affecting sales. Since then, the company claims improved food safety measures.
This latest salmonella issue coincides with difficulties in the dining industry due to an ongoing cyclospora outbreak linked to shredded lettuce, affecting numerous fast-casual chains. Chipotle is not implicated in that outbreak but anticipates a downturn in sales.
Following the announcement, Chipotle shares dropped nearly 10% on Tuesday.