Cleaning Chemical Mistaken for Sugar in Chili’s Margaritas

The customers experienced discomfort and burns in and around their mouths after drinking the contaminated margaritas shortly after the restaurant opened on October 28. They alerted staff and left for medical attention. Two employees then tasted the substance and developed similar symptoms; those affected were treated at an urgent care facility, according to a health district representative.

Foothills Health District’s preliminary findings indicate the chemical was brought to the restaurant two days earlier by an employee who obtained it from a contractor cleaning the building’s exterior with a power washer. It was placed in a container without a label and set aside in the bar area. An employee preparing for lunch service mistook it for sugar or salt and used it at the margarita station.

The health district suspended the restaurant’s food service permit and instructed staff to wash, rinse and sanitize affected preparation areas, equipment and surfaces. Environmental health specialists completed their investigation and reinstated the permit by October 29, after determining the restaurant met applicable food safety requirements.

Chili’s said it took immediate steps to support those affected and prevent further injuries, and that it was investigating the circumstances. Health Director Jason Masters said the incident underscored the need to label, store and handle chemicals properly under the North Carolina Food Code to prevent contamination and protect public health.