Chili's in Forest City Reopens After Chemical Mix-up
Five people were treated for mouth burns after an employee mistook a degreaser for sugar while preparing drinks.
By Maya Morris ·
The ForestHills Health District reinstated the food service permit for a Chili's Grill & Bar in Forest City, North Carolina, on Friday, Oct. 29. The restaurant had been closed since Thursday after health officials found a chemical contamination in the bar area.
Three customers and two employees reported discomfort and chemical burns in and around their mouths after consuming margaritas on Thursday, Oct. 28. Health officials did not immediately release information on the specific medical status of the five individuals. The restaurant staff notified authorities and left to seek medical attention.
The contamination originated from an unlabeled container placed in the bar area on Monday, Oct. 26. According to the ForestHills Health District, a contracted worker power washing the exterior stored a granulated degreasing chemical in that container. An employee preparing the bar for lunch on Thursday mistook the substance for sugar and used it to mix the margarita station.
Upon discovering the issue, officials suspended the restaurant's permit and ordered staff to thoroughly wash, rinse, and sanitize all affected food preparation areas and equipment. The facility resumed normal operations after environmental health specialists completed their inspection on Friday.
Chili's Grill & Bar acknowledged the incident in a statement released to the public. The company described the event as isolated and said its team took immediate action to support those affected. The restaurant stated it is actively investigating the circumstances, noting that the health and wellbeing of guests and team members remain its top priority.
Source: WBTV
