Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Jalapeno Peppers Spreads Across 32 States

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported 431 cases of salmonella across 32 states, with the likely source of the outbreak linked to jalapeno peppers distributed by Coast Citrus Distributors.

Source: cdnph.upi.com

According to the CDC, the outbreak has resulted in 57 hospitalizations, with the majority of cases reported in Minnesota and Colorado. The agency has identified Coast Citrus Distributors as the likely source of the outbreak, citing the company’s distribution of jalapeno peppers to several popular Mexican-style restaurants, including Chipotle and Qdoba.

Both Chipotle and Qdoba have removed jalapenos from their menus this month, following the outbreak. In addition, Taylor Fresh Foods, the company tied to the cyclospora outbreak in lettuce that began in July, has pulled salsa and dip products that contain recalled jalapenos. Whole Foods has also issued a recall on products that include jalapeno peppers, including guacamole, pico de gallo, and salsas.

The CDC reports that more than 50% of cases have been reported in Minnesota and Colorado. Symptoms of salmonella include abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and fever, with symptoms typically beginning within six hours to six days after infection.

As part of its investigation, the CDC has been interviewing people who have been infected with salmonella. According to the agency, about 91% of those interviewed reported eating at Mexican-style restaurants, including Chipotle and Qdoba.

The outbreak is believed to have begun sometime between June 19 and August 2. Earlier this month, there were 345 confirmed cases in 27 states. The cyclosporiasis outbreak in the United States continues to tally new infections, with the CDC reporting 15,716 confirmed cases across 47 states on Monday, up by 1,821 last week. Another 12,000 cases are under investigation.

The FDA and CDC have been working together to investigate the outbreak, inspecting Taylor Farms’ Mexican plant as part of the probe. The FDA and CDC are also probing the 27-state salmonella outbreak tied to jalapenos.

As the investigation continues, health officials are urging consumers to be aware of the potential risks associated with eating jalapeno peppers. Consumers are advised to check the labels of any products containing jalapeno peppers and to avoid consuming any products that have been recalled.

The CDC and FDA will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available. In the meantime, consumers are advised to take precautions to minimize their risk of infection.