Chipotle Mexican Grill has announced that it intends hiring 19,000 workers to improve service during the March to May period of peak demand.  Chipotle is offering financial benefits for existing and potential employees including retirement savings and student debt repayment.

An influx of untrained workers into a company with a history of foodborne infection predicates training and the provision of resources to promote hygienic handling of salads and food ingredients. The Chipotle menu contains items with a predilection for bacterial foodborne pathogens.  Previously Chipotle has been impacted by norovirus infections and accordingly temporary workers along with permanent employees should be instructed not to report to work if ill. This will require screening of workers and offering sick-days to avoid working while while ill, thereby creating a public health hazard and a business liability.