On October 30, 2026, multiple customers at a Chili's Grill & Bar in Forest City, North Carolina, reported chemical burns after consuming margaritas made with an industrial cleaning chemical. The incident occurred when an employee mistakenly used a degreaser, thinking it was sugar or salt. Following the reports, the restaurant's food service permit was suspended but was reinstated the next day after safety standards were met. The Foothills Health District stressed the importance of proper chemical labeling and storage to prevent such incidents.
Key facts
- Three customers and two employees reported chemical burns.
- The incident occurred at a Chili's in Forest City, North Carolina.
- An industrial degreaser was mistaken for sugar or salt.
- The restaurant's food service permit was temporarily suspended.
- The health district emphasized proper chemical handling in food service.
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