Chemical Burns Reported After Chili's Margarita Mistake

Three customers at a Chili's restaurant in Forest City, North Carolina, sustained chemical burns after consuming margaritas prepared with an industrial cleaning chemical that had been mistaken for sugar. Two employees also experienced similar symptoms after tasting the drink.

The incident began on Wednesday when a worker preparing the bar for service inadvertently used a powerful degreasing chemical. The chemical had been transferred into an unmarked container and stored in the bar area after a contractor used it for power-washing the restaurant's exterior two days prior. The worker believed the granules were sugar and used them in the margarita mixture.

According to preliminary findings from the Foothills Health District, the mistake became apparent after three customers ordered margaritas and immediately experienced discomfort. They suffered chemical burns inside and around their mouths, prompting them to seek medical treatment. Two employees then tasted the mixture themselves to identify the issue and also experienced adverse reactions.

Officials confirmed that all five affected individuals received medical attention at an urgent care facility. The specific identity of the cleaning product and the severity or permanence of the injuries have not been disclosed.

Local health authorities suspended the restaurant's food service permit pending an investigation. Staff were instructed to thoroughly clean and sanitize food preparation areas, equipment, and surfaces. The restaurant was cleared to resume operations on Thursday after passing food safety inspections.

Chili's has characterized the event as an isolated incident and stated it is investigating the matter while providing support to those affected. The Foothills Health District has used the occurrence to emphasize the critical importance of properly labeling and storing chemicals separately from food and beverages.