A salmonella outbreak tied to jalapeños is expanding fast — now stretching across 27 states, including California — and it's hitting some of the biggest names in the food business. The USDA says some meat products containing jalapeños may also be linked to the outbreak, widening the scope beyond fresh produce. This is a developing story and details are still coming in.
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Chipotle and Qdoba are both named in connection with the outbreak, according to early reports from NBC News. Meanwhile, grocery chain Jewel-Osco has already pulled fresh salsa products containing jalapeños from its shelves. Californians who've recently eaten jalapeño-containing foods at restaurants or bought fresh salsa should pay close attention.
The USDA's warning about meat products is the newest wrinkle. CBS News reports the agency is flagging certain meat items that may have come into contact with or contain contaminated jalapeños — meaning the exposure risk goes well beyond chips and salsa or a burrito bowl.
What California Shoppers Should Do Right Now
If you've bought fresh jalapeños, jalapeño-containing salsa, or similar products recently, check your fridge. Salmonella symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, typically showing up six hours to six days after exposure. If you're feeling sick, contact a doctor and report it to your local health department. The CDC's website has a symptom checker and outbreak tracker.
Which Chains Are Involved
Chipotle and Qdoba locations across the country are part of the investigation. It's not yet confirmed which specific locations or menu items are affected — that information is still being pinned down, per early reports. Jewel-Osco's recall covers fresh salsa products with jalapeños, though that chain operates primarily in the Midwest, not California.
What's Still Unknown
The exact source of the contaminated jalapeños hasn't been publicly identified yet. The number of confirmed illnesses and any California-specific case counts haven't been released in early reports. CAL WIRE will update this story as health officials release more details. Check back.