A multistate Salmonella Javiana outbreak tied to jalapeño peppers from Mexico has sickened 345 people across 27 US states, prompting a recall and supplier changes at major restaurant chains, federal health officials said.
The peppers were grown in Sinaloa, Mexico, and distributed in the United States by Coast Citrus Distributors, which has agreed to recall remaining product. Minnesota and Colorado have each reported 110 cases, with Illinois and Kansas accounting for 30 and 13 respectively. The outbreak has resulted in 36 hospitalizations and no deaths.
Chipotle Mexican Grill and Qdoba were identified as recipients of the imported jalapeños. Chipotle changed its jalapeño suppliers beginning July 20, while Qdoba stopped using jalapeños on July 28. The Food and Drug Administration said there is no current ongoing risk to consumers from these establishments.