US Probes Salmonella Outbreak Tied to Mexican Jalapenos

US health authorities are investigating a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Javiana infections linked to fresh jalapeno peppers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), along with state and local health departments, are jointly leading the investigation.

Reported illnesses began between June 19 and July 20. As of August 5, 345 people across 27 states have fallen ill, with 36 hospitalizations and no reported deaths. The affected states span the Midwest, South, and West, indicating broad distribution of the contaminated produce.

Investigators have traced the source to jalapeno peppers from Sinaloa, Mexico, distributed by Coast Citrus Distributors to restaurants and food service companies, including Mexican-style eateries. Among interviewed patients, a large majority reported dining at such establishments before falling ill, with meal dates ranging from June 14 to July 14.

Chipotle Mexican Grill and QDOBA have stopped serving the affected jalapenos. Coast Citrus Distributors has agreed to recall the peppers. The FDA believes the ongoing risk to consumers from these establishments is low, as products have been removed, but is working with the distributor to determine the full distribution network.

Salmonella is a leading cause of foodborne illness in the US, causing an estimated 1.35 million infections annually. Symptoms—diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps—typically appear 12 to 72 hours after exposure and last four to seven days. Young children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals face higher risks of severe complications.

The FDA advises distributors and restaurants not to sell or serve fresh jalapenos imported from Sinaloa by Coast Citrus Distributors. Consumers who recently dined at Mexican-style restaurants and became ill should seek medical care. Restaurants and retailers are urged to thoroughly clean surfaces and containers that may have contacted the product to prevent cross-contamination.

Investigators are using epidemiological interviews, laboratory testing, and food traceback to track the outbreak. The FDA is testing samples, reviewing distribution records, and overseeing recalls to prevent further contaminated products from reaching consumers.