Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Jalapenos Triggers Recalls at Whole Foods, Walmart, and Target

A salmonella outbreak linked to jalapenos triggered product recalls at Whole Foods, Walmart, and Target in August 2026. Restaurant chains Chipotle and Qdoba removed jalapeno ingredients from their menus as a precaution while health officials investigated.

The recalls affected fresh and packaged jalapeno products sold at the three major retailers. Officials did not immediately specify the number of confirmed illnesses tied to the outbreak, but said the investigation was ongoing.

Salmonella infections typically cause diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. Symptoms usually appear six hours to six days after exposure and last four to seven days. Most people recover without treatment, but severe cases can require hospitalization.

Health officials advised consumers who purchased jalapenos recently to check recall notices and discard any affected products. Anyone who has eaten jalapenos and developed symptoms was urged to contact a health care provider.

The outbreak added to a difficult summer for food safety. A separate multi-state cyclospora outbreak prompted warnings about produce earlier in the season.

The FDA and CDC said they were working with suppliers and retailers to identify the source of the salmonella contamination and prevent further spread.