ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Chipotle says it has removed jalapeños from some of its restaurants after identifying the peppers as a potential ingredient linked to a salmonella outbreak under investigation.
In a statement, the company said it traced ingredients through its supply chain after learning of a possible outbreak and identified jalapeños from a common lot as a potential source. Chipotle said it proactively removed the peppers and replaced them with products from different growers while public health authorities continue their investigation.
The action follows a salmonella outbreak in Minnesota that has sickened 110 people, according to reports. Chipotle says it is cooperating with health officials as they work to determine the source of the outbreak.
The salmonella investigation is separate from an ongoing nationwide cyclospora outbreak that has affected thousands of people across multiple states.
For New Mexico customers, Chipotle has seven restaurant locations in Albuquerque, including stores in the UNM area, Uptown, Cottonwood, Coors Boulevard, San Pedro, San Mateo and Juan Tabo.
Company officials say the precautionary removal of jalapeños is intended to protect customers while the investigation continues. No New Mexico cases connected to the salmonella outbreak have been announced.
