In October 2012 public health officials in Minnesota investigated an outbreak of Campylobacter jejuni infections among patrons of a restaurant located in Apple Valley, Minnesota.

Illness histories and exposure information were obtained from 74 restaurant patrons. Nine cases were identified. Cases with known meal dates reported eating at the restaurant from September 20 to October 1. Two cases had stool specimens that were positive for Campylobacter jejuni. One isolate was identified as PFGE subtype CMP235 and the other isolate was identified as PFGE subtype CMP236. One person was hospitalized.

Cases reported eating a variety of foods, including starters, sandwiches, burgers, and sides. No food item was significant associated with illness.

An environmental health assessment of the restaurant on October 22 revealed 8 critical violations and 4 non-critical violations, including possible routes of cross contamination. A 20-foot prep table was observed to be used for preparation of both raw meats and ready-to-eat foods with no clear separation or designation between raw and ready-to-eat foods. Additionally, no procedures were in place to show that the prep table was cleaned and sanitized between uses. Furthermore, several cooked items (e.g., chicken, taco meat) were stored on top of raw beef and raw chicken in a walk-in cooler. Food containers did not have any lids or other coverings.

Investigators concluded that the outbreak was likely caused by cross-contamination from raw meat to one or more ready-to-eat food items.