Chili’s Margaritas Contaminated with Cleaning Chemical, 3 Customers Injured

Three customers and two employees hospitalized after consuming margaritas laced with cleaning product at North Carolina Chili’s.

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Three customers and two employees at a Chili’s restaurant in Forest City, North Carolina, were hospitalized after consuming margaritas contaminated with a cleaning chemical, according to local health officials. The incident occurred on October 28, 2026, when a granulated degreasing chemical was mistakenly used in the preparation of the drinks, leading to chemical burns and discomfort for those affected.

Chemical Mistaken for Sugar

According to the Foothills Health District, the contamination began when a restaurant employee received a container of granulated degreasing chemical from a contracted worker who was power washing the restaurant’s exterior. The container, which was not labeled, was brought inside and left in the bar area. On the morning of October 28, an employee preparing the bar for lunch service discovered the unlabeled container and, believing its contents to be sugar, used the chemical to prepare the margarita station.

Shortly after the restaurant opened, three customers ordered margaritas and immediately experienced discomfort and chemical burns in and around their mouths after consuming the beverages. The customers notified staff and left to seek medical attention. Two restaurant employees subsequently tasted the substance and reported similar symptoms.

Investigation and Permit Reinstatement

Upon notification of the incident, Foothills Health District launched an investigation and issued an immediate suspension of the restaurant’s food service permit. The district directed staff to thoroughly wash, rinse, and sanitize affected food preparation areas, equipment, and surfaces. Authorities eventually finalized their investigation and reinstated the restaurant’s food service permit, indicating that the establishment met all applicable food safety requirements and was authorized to resume operations.

Health district spokesperson Megan Rollins stated that the persons affected were treated at an urgent care facility in the area. The restaurant reopened on Thursday, following the conclusion of the investigation.