The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported on Wednesday that a salmonella outbreak linked to jalapeno peppers has infected 431 people across 32 states. The updated count represents an increase from the 345 cases in 27 states reported by the agency earlier in August.
Health authorities are investigating the source of the salmonella javiana infections, which have resulted in 57 hospitalizations and no deaths as of August 19. According to the CDC, the onset of illnesses occurred between June 19 and August 2. Salmonella is a bacteria that cause salmonellosis, a foodborne illness characterized by fever, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.
The CDC has linked the infections to jalapeno peppers grown in Sinaloa, Mexico, and distributed by Coast Citrus Distributors. Interviews conducted by health officials found that 91% of those sickened reported eating at Mexican-style restaurants before falling ill, specifically naming Chipotle Mexican Grill and QDOBA. In response, Chipotle changed its jalapeno supplier, and QDOBA stopped using the ingredient.
A person affected by this outbreak would typically experience symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain, which for 57 individuals were severe enough to require hospital treatment. While no deaths have been reported, the incident has prompted immediate operational changes at major food service providers. Patrons of Chipotle Mexican Grill and QDOBA may notice these changes in the form of new suppliers or the temporary absence of jalapenos from menus. The economic impact includes the cost of medical care for the infected and the disruption of the supply chain for distributors and retailers handling Mexican-grown peppers.
The investigation into these jalapenos occurs alongside a separate CDC inquiry into a cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to lettuce from Taylor Farms. These concurrent investigations emphasize the ongoing challenge federal health officials face in monitoring produce safety for a wide range of consumers, including those who rely on major food-service producers. As of August 19, the CDC continues to monitor the situation. Future developments will depend on the results of ongoing trace-back investigations and the effectiveness of the supplier changes implemented by the affected restaurant chains.