Three Chili’s customers chemically burned after margarita mix-up - The Independent

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Three customers suffered chemical burns after drinking margaritas mistakenly made with a cleaning chemical instead of sugar at a Chili’s Grill & Bar in North Carolina, health officials said. The restaurant chain has said all issues related to the “isolated incident” have been addressed.

Two employees also reported symptoms after tasting the substance at the restaurant in Forest City, located about 60 miles west of Charlotte, according to a news release from the Foothills Health District.

The incident stemmed from an October 26 exchange in which a restaurant employee received “a granulated degreasing chemical” from a contractor hired to power wash the building’s exterior. The chemical was then placed in an unmarked container, brought inside and left near the bar.

Two days later, an employee mistook the chemical for sugar and used it to make margaritas, officials said.

“Shortly after the restaurant opened, three customers ordered margaritas and immediately experienced discomfort and chemical burns in and around their mouths after consuming the beverages,” officials said. “The customers notified restaurant staff and left to seek medical attention. Two restaurant employees subsequently tasted the substance and reported similar symptoms.”

Health officials then opened an investigation and suspended the restaurant’s permit for food service. They also instructed staff to “thoroughly” clean affected areas. By October 29, the probe had concluded, and the permit was reinstated.

“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,” Jason Masters, the health director of the Foothills Health District, said in the release.

A spokesperson for Chili’s, owned by parent company Brinker International, said that two guests and employees were injured.

“We are aware of an incident isolated to a single restaurant in Forest City, North Carolina, that resulted in injuries to two of our guests and Team Members,” the spokesperson said in a statement provided to The Independent.

“Our team took immediate action to support those affected and avoid further injuries,” the statement continued. “We have thoroughly investigated the circumstances and addressed the issues specific to this location. The health and wellbeing of our guests and Team Members remain our top priority.”

Chili’s operates at over 1,200 locations in the United States.