Three Chili’s customers suffer chemical burns at a restaurant in North Carolina after a chemical cleaning agent was used instead of salt to coat the rims of margarita classes, according to a press release from the Foothills Health District. Two employees also reported symptoms after tasting the substance. The restaurant is located in Forest City, North Carolina.
The incident began on October 26, 2026, when an employee received a granular degreasing chemical from a contracted worker who was power washing the exterior of the restaurant. The chemical was placed inside an unmarked container and left in the bar. On the morning of October 28, 2026, an employee preparing for lunch service discovered the box, thought it was salt, and used the chemical to prepare the margarita station.
When the restaurant opened for lunch, three customers ordered margaritas and immediately experienced chemical burns in and around their mouths. They told staff about the issue and left to get medical attention. Two employees tasted the substance and experienced similar symptoms.
When learning about this occurrence, the Foothills Health District opened an investigation and immediately suspended the restaurant’s food service permit. The staff was ordered to thoroughly wash, rinse, and sanitize affected food prep areas, equipment, and surfaces.
The investigation was finished by the morning of October 29, 2026, and the food service permit was reinstated after public health officials demonstrated the importance of proper chemical labeling, storage, and handling.
The Foothills Health District is reminding all food establishments that chemicals must be properly labeled and stored separately from food and food preparation materials. Anyone who thinks they may have been exposed to the chemical should seek medical attention.
