NatureBest and H-E-B have expanded a recall after some ready-to-eat items may contain jalapeños contaminated with Salmonella. The products were distributed in Texas and Louisiana between July 3 and August 5, 2026, and NatureBest has halted distribution. The FDA reports at least 345 illnesses in 27 states linked to the outbreak; several national retailers and some restaurant chains were connected to cases but are not considered ongoing risks. Consumers should not eat recalled items and may return them for a full refund; seek medical care if you develop symptoms.
Grocery Chain Expands Recall After Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Jalapeños
NatureBest recalls more than a dozen items sold in H-E-B grocery stores and linked to a jalapeño recall. (Source: FDA)
NatureBest has expanded a recall of more than a dozen ready-to-eat products sold at H-E-B stores after receiving notice that some items may contain jalapeño peppers contaminated with Salmonella. H-E-B later added nearly 20 additional items to its recall list.
Scope of the Recall
The affected products were produced by NatureBest Precut & Produce and sold in Texas and Louisiana under both the NatureBest label and H-E-B’s private brand. According to a statement posted on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's website, the products were distributed between July 3, 2026, and August 5, 2026. NatureBest says it has halted distribution of all items covered by the recall.
What Prompted the Action
NatureBest initiated the recall after receiving notice from Coast Citrus Distributors that some items may include jalapeños potentially contaminated with Salmonella. Salmonella can cause fever, diarrhea and vomiting in otherwise healthy people, and can lead to more serious infections in young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems.
Public Health Impact
The FDA reports at least 345 illnesses across 27 states that are believed to be tied to the contaminated peppers. Public health investigators linked many cases to restaurant chains including Qdoba and Chipotle; both restaurants made operational changes in response to the outbreak. The FDA has said it does not consider either chain to pose an ongoing public health risk.
Retailers and Downstream Products
The recall has expanded beyond H-E-B. Several other national grocers, including Albertsons, Kroger, Target, Walmart and Whole Foods, have pulled downstream products that contained the jalapeños. H-E-B’s updated recall notice lists the newly identified items and provides guidance to customers.
Consumer Guidance
If you have any of the recalled NatureBest or H-E-B items, do not eat them. Return the products to the place of purchase for a full refund. If you believe you are experiencing symptoms of Salmonella infection — such as fever, abdominal cramps, diarrhea or vomiting — contact your healthcare provider. People with severe symptoms or signs of dehydration should seek immediate medical attention.
Sources: U.S. Food and Drug Administration, H-E-B, NatureBest and public health reports.
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