The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is warning consumers about a multistate outbreak of Salmonella infections that has been linked to contaminated jalapeño peppers.
According to the CDC, 345 people in 27 states have become sick after being infected with the same strain of Salmonella. At least 36 people have been hospitalized, but no deaths have been reported.
Health investigators traced the outbreak to jalapeño peppers grown in Sinaloa, Mexico, and distributed by Coast Citrus Distributors. The company has issued a recall and is notifying its customers. The affected peppers were primarily distributed to restaurants and wholesale businesses.
The CDC said Chipotle Mexican Grill and Qdoba voluntarily stopped serving the affected jalapeños after learning about the outbreak. Because both restaurant chains removed the product from their locations, officials say they are not considered an ongoing risk to consumers.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is continuing to investigate whether the recalled jalapeños were also sold in grocery stores. Additional recalls could be announced if more affected products are identified.
Consumers are encouraged to check with the store where they purchased jalapeño peppers to determine their source. Anyone who has recalled jalapeños at home should not eat them and should dispose of them immediately.
Businesses are advised not to sell or serve the recalled peppers and should thoroughly wash and sanitize any surfaces or equipment that may have come into contact with the product.
Salmonella infection typically causes diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps beginning 6 hours to 6 days after exposure. Most people recover within 4 to 7 days without treatment, but severe illness can occur, especially in children under 5, adults 65 and older, and people with weakened immune systems.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Food Safety Alert; U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
