Texas – Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller urged Texans to pay attention to federal food safety guidance following a multistate Salmonella outbreak linked to certain fresh jalapeño peppers imported from Mexico.
Miller said the outbreak highlights the importance of food safety standards and protecting the nation’s food supply, particularly as jalapeños remain a common ingredient in Texas households.
“Texans love jalapeños,” Miller said. “We put them on burgers, tacos, nachos, barbecue, and just about anything else that needs a little kick.”
He said consumers should be able to trust that the food they purchase is safe and praised federal, state and local officials for working to identify the source of the outbreak and alert consumers.
Miller also used the outbreak to call for stronger protections surrounding imported produce and greater support for American farmers.
“This Salmonella outbreak in jalapeños from a supplier in Mexico is another reminder that food security is national security,” Miller said.
The commissioner encouraged Texans to review recall information and follow guidance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention regarding potentially contaminated peppers.
Miller also encouraged consumers to purchase Texas-grown and American-grown produce when possible, saying Texas farmers operate under rigorous food-safety standards.
“Texans need to check the recall information, follow FDA guidance, and when you have a choice, buy Texas and buy American,” Miller said. “Keep those spicy jalapeños coming, just make sure they’re safe.”
