Chemical Mix-Up at North Carolina Chili’s Leads to Burns

Consumers at a Chili’s Grill & Bar in Forest City, North Carolina, suffered chemical burns after unintentionally consuming margaritas mixed with an industrial cleaning substance. The Foothills Health District reported the incident on Wednesday.

The health district detailed how three customers experienced chemical burns after drinking the affected margaritas. Additionally, two restaurant employees reported similar symptoms after exposure to the chemical.

The incident traces back to a mistake when an employee received an industrial degreaser, which a contracted worker mistook for sugar or salt. This substance was left in an unmarked container in the restaurant’s bar area. When preparing for lunch service, another employee used the chemical, believing it to be an ingredient for drink preparation.

The Foothills Health District noted that three customers felt discomfort and experienced chemical burns around their mouths soon after consuming the drinks.

Concerned, two additional employees tasted the substance and suffered similar effects.

Chili’s released a statement acknowledging the incident. The company stated they acted promptly to aid those affected, asserting their commitment to guest and staff health. Although their account mentioned two guests affected, the health district’s findings confirmed three cases.

Following the incident, the restaurant’s food service permit was revoked. However, it was reinstated the next day after specialists confirmed compliance with other food safety standards.

The Foothills Health District utilized this incident as a reminder for strict adherence to chemical labeling, storage, and handling protocols as mandated by the North Carolina Food Code. Proper chemical management is essential to prevent contamination risks in food establishments.

Jason Masters, health director of the Foothills Health District, emphasized the need for compliance to protect public health and prevent chemical contamination.