US Salmonella Outbreak Tied to Jalapenos Reaches 431 Cases

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a significant expansion of a salmonella outbreak linked to jalapeno peppers. As of August 19, the agency has confirmed 431 infections across 32 states, a sharp increase from the 345 cases reported earlier in the month.

The outbreak, caused by the salmonella javiana strain, has resulted in 57 hospitalizations, but no deaths have been recorded. Illnesses associated with the outbreak began between June 19 and August 2.

Investigators have traced the source of the contamination to jalapeno peppers grown in Sinaloa, Mexico, and distributed by Coast Citrus Distributors. A vast majority of those affected — 91 percent of interviewed patients — reported dining at a Mexican-style restaurant before falling ill. This includes popular chains such as Chipotle Mexican Grill and QDOBA.

In response, Chipotle has switched its jalapeno supplier, while QDOBA has stopped using the ingredient altogether.

The CDC notes that salmonella is a common cause of foodborne illness, leading to symptoms like diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. The agency estimates that the bacteria causes over one million such infections in the United States annually.

This investigation is occurring alongside a separate multistate cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to lettuce from Taylor Farms, a major food-service producer.