Federal health officials are investigating a multistate Salmonella outbreak linked to fresh jalapeños from Mexico
The peppers have sickened hundreds of individuals across dozens of states, leading to at least 36 hospitalizations
Major restaurant chains such as Chipotle and QDOBA have pulled the affected produce
THURSDAY, Aug. 6, 2026 (HealthDay News) — A multistate outbreak of Salmonella infections has been linked to fresh jalapeño peppers imported from Sinaloa, Mexico, according to federal health officials.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are actively investigating the outbreak, which has sickened hundreds and put dozens of people in the hospital. No deaths have been reported.
The outbreak strain has affected individuals across 27 states, with the highest case counts in Colorado and Minnesota. Consumers reported symptom onset from mid-June through late July 2026.
So far, 345 people have become ill and 36 have been hospitalized, according to the FDA.
Investigators tracing the source of the contaminated produce identified Coast Citrus Distributors, based in San Diego, as the primary distributor supplying wholesalers and food service companies with the peppers nationwide.
Many infected reported eating at Mexican-style restaurants prior to becoming ill, including popular chains like Chipotle Mexican Grill and QDOBA.
Restaurant chains have taken corrective measures. While Chipotle changed suppliers for its jalapeños, QDOBA completely removed the ingredient from its menus.
Due to these actions, FDA regulators stated it “does not consider there to be a current ongoing risk from these establishments to consumers in this outbreak.”
Coast Citrus Distributors has agreed to cooperate with federal authorities to recall the implicated produce and notify affected customers, according to the FDA.
Any customers that received the recalled jalapeños should discard the product and carefully clean and sanitize any surfaces or containers that the product touched.
Consumers who recently dined at a Mexican-style restaurant and have become ill should seek medical care.
Health agencies emphasize that the investigation remains active as officials continue to trace the complete distribution chain to ensure all contaminated food items are pulled from the market.
Individuals infected with this strain of Salmonella typically experience symptoms within one to three days of eating the food product, the FDA said. These signs often include painful abdominal cramps, high fever and diarrhea lasting up to a week.
While most people recover without intervention, young children, older adults and those with compromised immune systems face a higher risk of severe complications requiring medical care.
More information
Visit the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for tips on safe produce handling.
SOURCE: U.S. Food and Drug Administration, outbreak investigation update, Aug. 5, 2026
Anyone experiencing symptoms such as stomach cramps and diarrhea after dining out should contact their healthcare provider right away.
