While handling an E.coli outbreak that has sickened people in six states, Chipotle Mexican Grill has tightened its standards for suppliers, potentially jeopardizing its longtime commitment to local ingredients, Bloomberg reports.
“We have elevated requirements for all of our produce suppliers (chiefly in the area of testing of ingredients) and we are not sure that all of the current local suppliers will be able to meet those elevated protocols,” Chipotle spokesperson Chris Arnold told Bloomberg.
Fallout from the E.coli epidemic has dragged down consumer perception of the fast-casual chain and is predicted to have a negative impact on its Q4 sales.
Read the full story via Bloomberg.
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