Denver-based restaurant chain Chipotle says it’s been served with a new subpoena in a federal criminal probe linked to food safety.
The disclosure came as Chipotle announced its fourth earnings results.
The company says the subpoena requires it provide federal prosecutors information related to company-wide food safety measures dating back to 2013.
Earlier, the company said federal authorities served a subpoena regarding a food-borne illness outbreak at one California restaurant.
Despite that company officials say they’re encouraged by other developments, including that the CDC had finished an investigation into recent e coli incidents linked to the chain.
“We’ve got things on our side," said Chipotle's Chief Financial Officer Jack Hartung. "It’s been a tough couple of months.”
Sales at established stores fell by more than 14 percent in the fourth quarter after food scares hit franchises in several states.
Chipotle says its launched a series of new safety steps including preparing tomatoes, lettuce and bell peppers in a central kitchen. It’s also planning a major marketing campaign to lure customers back.
