Chili’s in North Carolina suspends permit after chemical burns from margaritas

A Chili’s Grill & Bar in Forest City, North Carolina, faced a temporary food service permit suspension after customers and employees suffered chemical burns from margaritas.

According to the Foothills Health District, the incident occurred when an employee mistakenly used an industrial degreaser to prepare the margarita station, believing the substance was sugar or salt. The error reportedly began when an employee placed a granulated degreasing chemical, provided by a contracted worker, into an unmarked container and left it in the bar area.

Three customers and two employees experienced discomfort and chemical burns in and around their mouths after consuming the drinks. Chili’s issued a statement noting they are actively investigating the circumstances and took immediate action to support those affected. The restaurant's permit has since been restored following an investigation that determined food safety standards were being met.