Salmonella outbreak linked to tainted jalapenos isn’t over, as CDC reports more than 400 cases

Health newsSalmonella outbreak linked to tainted jalapenos isn’t overThe CDC reported more than 400 cases in 32 states, although the number of illnesses is likely much higher. Listen to this article with a free profile00:0000:00The CDC and FDA are investigating an outbreak of Salmonella Javiana infections across the country.AnaDeePhotography / Getty ImagesShareAdd to GoogleAug. 19, 2026, 5:38 PM EDTBy Erika EdwardsAt least 431 people in 32 states have gotten sick from eating fresh jalapeno peppers contaminated with salmonella, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported Wednesday. The likely source of the illnesses were jalapenos grown in Mexico and distributed by Coast Citrus Distributors, which recalled the peppers. They were served at Chipotle, Qdoba and other Mexican-style restaurants. Chipotle, Qdoba both removed jalapenos from their menus in early August. Taylor Fresh Foods also pulled various salsa and dip products that contained the recalled jalapenos. The products were sold under brands including Hannaford, Kroger, Target, Trader Joe’s, Walmart. Whole Food recalled salsa, guacamole, pico de gallo and prepared foods containing the peppersWhole Foods Market recalled select salsa, guacamole, pico de gallo and prepared foods containing the peppers in 12 states, with best before/by dates of 8/7/2026 and 8/16/2026. Fifty-seven people have been hospitalized. There have been no reported deaths. People infected with salmonella bacteria often have diarrhea, stomach cramps and a fever that comes on within hours to a few days after eating tainted food. The CDC said the number of cases in the salmonella outbreak is likely much higher. Because it can take three to four weeks for cases to be reported, there may be more illnesses not yet reported. The U.S. has also dealt with a massive uptick in the parasitic illness cyclosporiasis this summer, driven largely by tainted lettuce. While new cases appear to be slowing, it remains one of the largest foodborne illne...