Chipotle removes jalapeños amid US cyclosporiasis outbreak

A cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to contaminated jalapeños has sickened at least 345 people across 27 U.S. states, with 36 hospitalizations and no reported deaths. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) traced the parasite to jalapeños sourced from Mexico and distributed by California‑based Coast Citrus Distributors. In response, restaurant chains Chipotle Mexican Grill and Qdoba have removed the peppers from their menus while the Food and Drug Administration investigates possible retail distribution.

California health officials report a higher‑than‑expected 201 confirmed and probable cases in the state, including 11 hospitalizations. Although the state’s cases are largely linked to travel and out‑of‑state exposure, California is not counted as part of the multi‑state outbreak. Officials are monitoring the situation and working to identify the source of the increase.