US warns of salmonella outbreak linked to Mexican jalapeños; 345 cases reported

U.S. health officials are investigating a salmonella outbreak tied to jalapeño peppers imported from Mexico. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 345 cases across 27 states, with 36 individuals requiring hospitalization.

The outbreak has been linked to jalapeños distributed by Coast Citrus Distributors. Major restaurant chains, including Chipotle and QDOBA, received the affected peppers. Both chains have since removed the jalapeños from their inventory and no longer pose a risk to consumers, according to the CDC.

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The CDC and public health authorities in several states are investigating a multi-state outbreak of Salmonella infections linked to jalapeño peppers. Businesses are advised to check their inventory for recalled jalapeño peppers and not to sell or serve them.

Health authorities are working to determine if the contaminated jalapeños made their way into U.S. supermarkets. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) may announce further recalls if the peppers are found in retail stores.

Salmonella infection symptoms include high fever, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Most people recover within a week, but young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for severe illness. This outbreak occurs as the U.S. also grapples with a surge in cyclospora infections, also linked to produce from Mexico.

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The FDA is working to determine if the jalapeños reached supermarkets. If the affected jalapeños were also available in stores, the FDA may announce additional recalls on its website.