A Salmonella outbreak tied to recalled jalapeño peppers has now sickened hundreds of people across the United States. The latest update from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports 431 infections and 57 hospitalizations across 32 states.
No deaths have been reported, but health officials continue to investigate the source and spread of the outbreak.
The CDC reported the updated figures on Wednesday, Aug. 19. The numbers represent 86 additional cases, 21 more hospitalizations and five newly affected states.
The outbreak has been linked to jalapeños and foods containing jalapeños distributed by Coast Citrus Distributors. The peppers were grown in Sinaloa, Mexico. A recall remains in effect, and the CDC is urging consumers to check their food before eating, selling or serving it.
The 32 states reporting illnesses are Alabama, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Missouri, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Dakota, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming.
Recalled Foods
NatureBest Precut & Produce LLC voluntarily recalled several products containing the affected jalapeños. The recalled items include soup mix, pico de gallo, stuffed mushrooms and diced jalapeños. They were distributed in Texas and Louisiana between July 3 and Aug. 5, with best-by dates through Aug. 16.
Whole Foods Market also recalled certain foods, including guacamole, pico de gallo, salsa and condiments. Those products carried best-by dates from Aug. 7 through Aug. 16 and were distributed in Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Missouri, Ohio, Oklahoma, Texas and Wisconsin.
Kroger, Target, Trader Joe’s and Walmart also reported receiving recalled foods.
The CDC advises consumers not to eat recalled jalapeños or products containing them. Any surfaces or items that may have touched the recalled foods should also be washed thoroughly.
Salmonella Symptoms
Symptoms usually begin six hours to six days after exposure. Common warning signs include diarrhea, fever, vomiting and dehydration.
Medical attention is recommended for people who develop diarrhea with a fever above 102°F, diarrhea lasting more than two days, bloody diarrhea, repeated vomiting or signs of dehydration such as reduced urination, dry mouth and dizziness.
Most people recover without medical treatment. However, children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems face a higher risk of severe illness.
The recall previously included jalapeños served at Chipotle and Qdoba. Both restaurant chains stopped serving the recalled product after receiving information about the outbreak from the CDC.
The investigation remains active, and health officials continue tracking infections connected to the recalled jalapeños and related foods. Consumers should check their refrigerators and food purchases for affected products before eating or serving them.
With 431 illnesses and 57 hospitalizations across 32 states, the outbreak remains a significant food safety concern. Avoiding recalled jalapeños, following CDC guidance and watching for Salmonella symptoms can help reduce the risk of further illness.
