Cleaning Powder Mistaken for Sugar Burns Chili’s Customers

Three customers who ordered margaritas at a Forest City Chili’s shortly after it opened for lunch on October 28 experienced soreness and caustic injuries around their lips. Two employees later tasted the substance and experienced similar symptoms. The affected customers received medical treatment, though officials did not provide details about their conditions.

The Foothills Health District said a granulated degreaser had been brought to the restaurant on October 26 by a contractor working on its exterior. An employee put it in an unlabeled container, which was moved indoors and set down near the bar. On October 28, a worker preparing for lunch mistook the powder for sugar and used it at the margarita station.

During the inquiry, health officials put the restaurant’s food service permit on hold. Inspectors directed staff to clean and sanitize areas and equipment that might have been exposed. The permit was reinstated after the inspection found the restaurant met food safety requirements. The health district said its investigation had closed and no fines were issued.

Chili’s described the event as limited to its Forest City restaurant and said it had acted to help those affected and prevent further injuries. The company’s statement identified two injured guests and team members, while health officials’ account described three customers and two employees. Chili’s said it had investigated and addressed problems specific to the location. Foothills Health District Director Jason Masters said proper chemical labeling, storage and handling are essential to preventing contamination.