3 customers suffer chemical burns after drinking margaritas at Chili's in North Carolina

An investigation is currently underway following a serious incident at a Chili's Grill & Bar in Forest City, North Carolina, where three customers suffered chemical burns after consuming margaritas prepared with a cleaning agent mistakenly thought to be sugar. This alarming event has prompted officials from the Foothills Health District to look into the circumstances surrounding the exposure.

According to a press release from the health district, the incident took place on Monday, October 26, when an employee at the restaurant received a "granulated degreasing chemical" from a contractor who was power-washing the restaurant's exterior. This chemical was improperly stored in an unlabeled container, which was later brought inside and left in the bar area.

On Wednesday, October 28, while preparing for the lunch service, a bar employee discovered the container and, mistakenly assuming it was sugar, used its contents to mix margaritas. Shortly thereafter, three customers who ordered the drinks began to experience discomfort and chemical burns around their mouths. They promptly informed the restaurant staff and sought medical attention. Following this, two employees who tasted the substance also reported similar symptoms.

Megan Rollins, a spokesperson for the Foothills Health District, confirmed that the affected individuals received treatment at urgent care facilities, although she did not specify the severity of their injuries. In response to the incident, the health district promptly suspended the food service permit for the Chili's location and directed the staff to thoroughly clean and sanitize all areas and equipment that could have been affected.

Levonne Baker, a frequent patron of Chili's, expressed his shock and concern about the incident. He described the experience as something out of a horror movie, stating, "It's like a Wes Craven story that's coming to life. I mean, you don't get margaritas that can burn your skin." Baker also mentioned that the incident has made him hesitant to return to the restaurant's bar, questioning the safety of the establishment. "It has made me a little nervous about going back to the bar because it's like what's in there next? I mean, am I going to be the next person who's going next door? And not for an oil change," he remarked, referring to the mechanic shop located near the restaurant.

By Thursday morning, environmental health specialists had completed their investigation, and the food service permit for the Chili's location was reinstated after officials confirmed that the restaurant met all necessary food safety standards. Although the restaurant chain was reached for a statement, they had not responded by the time of this report.

This incident underscores the critical importance of properly labeling chemicals in both workplace and home environments to prevent accidental exposure. Rollins noted that having clear labels allows for quicker identification of substances in the event of ingestion. "Then you can call poison control, and they can walk you through exactly how to neutralize that chemical," she added.

For anyone who may experience symptoms following a suspected chemical exposure, health officials advise contacting Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 for assistance.