By Paul R. La Monica | February 1 (CNN Money, CNN.com) The cause of the outbreak is still unknown. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicated that it was likely due to “a common meal item or ingredient” served at the popular Mexican food chain.
“When a restaurant serves foods with several ingredients that are mixed or cooked together and then used in multiple menu items, it can be more difficult for epidemiologic studies to identity [sic] the specific ingredient that is contaminated,” according to the CDC release.
In a statement, Chipotle said it was pleased that the investigation is over.
“Over the past few months we have taken significant steps to improve the safety of all of the food we serve, and we are confident that the changes we have made mean that every item on our menu is delicious and safe,” Chipotle said.
The CDC also confirmed that a second, separate strain of E. coli in late November was tied to Chipotle.