- Chipotle is removing jalapeños from several of its restaurant locations.
- The peppers were identified as a potential source of a salmonella outbreak.
- The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) is investigating the outbreak.
Cases of cyclosporiasis continue to rise across the country, but that isn’t the only foodborne illness making headlines: Chipotle Mexican Grill is now under suspicion for an ongoing salmonella outbreak.
On August 4, the restaurant chain removed jalapeños from several locations after identifying them as a potential source. “Out of an abundance of caution, we proactively removed the jalapeños from our restaurants and replaced them with product from different growers,” Chipotle said in a brief statement on the recall. The peppers are a mainstay on the chain’s menu and are included in several items, including its guacamole, pico de gallo, and corn salsa.
While the jalapeños are being investigated as a potential source of the salmonella outbreak, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has not yet officially identified any sources and is continuing to look into “multiple ingredients.” Here’s what you need to know.
Which Chipotle locations are affected?
Chipotle did not specify exactly which locations were serving the affected jalapeños, or who the original supplier was, though the company did say they were distributed across several states. According to the FDA, there are currently 212 cases of salmonella associated with the outbreak in question.
According to the Associated Press, the Minnesota Department of Health has identified 110 cases in the state. Jalepeños served at several fast-casual Mexican restaurant chains are suspected to be the source, with most cases appearing to be tied to Chipotle.
What are the common symptoms of salmonella?
According to the FDA, salmonella symptoms usually develop 12 to 72 hours after consuming contaminated food. For most people, symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. However, the FDA warns that more severe cases “may include a high fever, aches, headaches, lethargy, a rash, blood in the urine or stool, and in some cases may become fatal.” If you notice any of these symptoms, be sure to contact a doctor right away.
Read the full article here
