US Probes Multistate Salmonella Outbreak Tied to 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 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 been affected, with 36 hospitalizations and no reported deaths. The cases span the Midwest, South, and West, indicating the broad distribution of the contaminated produce.

The outbreak has been traced to jalapeno peppers from Sinaloa, Mexico, distributed by Coast Citrus Distributors to restaurants and food service companies, including Mexican-style eateries. Chipotle Mexican Grill and QDOBA have stopped serving affected peppers. Coast Citrus Distributors has agreed to a recall.

Taylor Farms, a California-based supplier, has also recalled prepared food items containing jalapenos, such as salsa and guacamole, and has stopped sourcing from a farmer in Sinaloa identified as a possible source. The FDA believes the current risk to consumers is low, as products have been removed from stores.

Salmonella is a leading cause of foodborne illness in the US, causing an estimated 1.35 million infections annually. Symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps, typically appearing 12 to 72 hours after exposure and lasting 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 sanitize surfaces that may have contacted the product to prevent cross-contamination.

Investigators are using epidemiological interviews, laboratory testing, and traceback efforts to track the contamination and oversee recalls, ensuring no additional contaminated products reach consumers.