Chili’s Margaritas Accidentally Laced with Degreaser Burns Five in North Carolina
A misidentified cleaning agent on margarita rims caused chemical burns for three patrons and two employees at a Forest City Chili’s.
Three customers and two employees at a Chili’s Grill & Bar in Forest City, N.C., were burned on and around their mouths after a white granulated substance, thought to be sugar, was used to rim margaritas.
It turned out to be a degreaser left in an unlabeled container near the bar, according to Megan Rollins, spokeswoman for the Foothills Health District.
Rollins said the five people suffered chemical burns after contact with the cleaning agent. The district’s environmental health specialists were sent to the restaurant immediately, as noted by public health director Jason Masters in an email.
The Forest City Police Department could not be reached for comment, and it was unclear whether a police investigation had begun.
Chili’s responded with a statement that the chain “took immediate action to support those affected and avoid further injuries.”
