Salmonella outbreak jalapeño peppers traced to Chipotle, Qdoba supply chain

U.S. health officials have confirmed a Salmonella outbreak jalapeño peppers link to dozens of restaurants, including Chipotle and Qdoba. The contaminated produce, grown in Sinaloa, Mexico, was shipped by Coast Citrus Distributors and appeared on menus nationwide.

Salmonella outbreak jalapeño peppers: scope and response

As of Aug. 6, ↓ 345 individuals across 27 states have reported illness, with ↓ 36 hospitalizations. Minnesota and Colorado bear the brunt, each logging over 110 cases. A Minnesota diner has filed a lawsuit against Chipotle, alleging sepsis after a chicken burrito bowl. Chipotle announced on Aug. 5 that it pulled the implicated jalapeños and sourced alternatives; Qdoba removed all jalapeños “out of an abundance of caution.” The CDC and FDA say no ongoing risk remains at the chains, yet investigations continue into possible grocery‑store distribution.

“We are working closely with regulators to protect consumers,” a Coast Citrus spokesperson said.

The FDA confirmed a voluntary recall and is notifying customers. Salmonella, a leading foodborne pathogen, has surged globally, with cases up ↑ 50% from 1990‑2021, according to a 2025 study. Symptoms range from fever and cramps to severe dehydration; the CDC urges medical attention for fevers above 102°F or persistent diarrhea. Parallel outbreaks—eggs linked to Midwest Poultry Services and a record cyclosporiasis spread—keep officials on high alert. For ongoing updates, see Reuters and the CDC.