Multiple diners suffered severe mouth injuries on Wednesday at a Chili's Grill & Bar in Forest City, North Carolina, after drinking margaritas mixed with an industrial cleaning chemical instead of sugar or salt. The dangerous chemical contamination led to an immediate health investigation and a temporary suspension of the restaurant's food service permit.
How the Margarita Contamination Happened
According to preliminary findings from the Foothills Health District, the incident originated on Monday when a contracted worker delivered an industrial degreaser to an employee. This chemical was placed into an unmarked container and brought inside the building, where it was left sitting in the bar area.
Two days later, during preparations for the lunch service, a worker found the unlabeled container. Believing the substance inside was either sugar or salt, the employee utilized the industrial cleaner to prep the margarita station. Shortly after doors opened for the day, three customers ordered drinks and drank the contaminated beverages.
Injuries and Immediate Response
The affected diners "immediately experienced discomfort and chemical burns in and around their mouths" after taking sips of the tainted drinks. Following complaints from the table, two restaurant employees also tasted the substance out of curiosity and reported similar adverse symptoms.
In an official statement regarding the event, corporate representatives emphasized their swift response:
"We are aware of an isolated incident at our restaurant in Forest City, North Carolina that resulted in injuries to two of our guests and Team Members. Our team took immediate action to support those affected and avoid any further injuries. We are actively investigating the circumstances related to this incident as the health and wellbeing of our guests and Team Members remain our top priority."
While the company noted that two guests and team members were injured, the health district's preliminary report stated that a total of three customers suffered burns.
Health Inspection and Permit Reinstatement
Following reports of the chemical exposure, the Foothills Health District launched an investigation and promptly suspended the restaurant's food service permit. However, the closure was short-lived. Specialists evaluated the establishment and quickly reinstated the permit on Thursday after confirming that the location met all other required food safety standards.
Health officials utilized the event to issue a strong reminder regarding safety protocols across North Carolina eateries. Proper chemical labeling, secure storage, and correct handling away from food zones are strict requirements under the North Carolina Food Code to avoid hazardous public health risks.
"This incident highlights the importance of proper chemical labeling, storage, and handling in food service establishments, as required by the North Carolina Food Code, to prevent chemical contamination and protect public health," stated Jason Masters, health director of the Foothills Health District.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the chemical burns at Chili's?
Customers suffered chemical burns after drinking margaritas prepared with an industrial degreaser that had been mistakenly placed in an unmarked container and confused with sugar or salt.
Where did the incident take place?
The contamination occurred on Wednesday at a Chili's Grill & Bar location in Forest City, North Carolina.
Is the Chili's restaurant still closed?
No, the restaurant's food service permit was suspended following the investigation but was reinstated on Thursday after health specialists determined the facility met all other food safety standards.