Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Tigard School Confirms Oven Cleaner Was Sprinkled on 37 Pretzels as Inquiry Begins

A formal inquiry is underway after staff reported identifying affected students, with roughly 20 poison-control calls.

Overview

  • Fowler Middle School said a granular oven cleaner was mistakenly applied to pretzels served during sixth-grade lunch on Monday.
  • Principal Cindy Pellicci identified the product as Alto Shaam, which officials described as capable of causing mouth burning or vomiting if swallowed.
  • District officials said staff contacted each student who ate a pretzel, and some reported discomfort while others had no symptoms.
  • The district reported contacting the Oregon Poison Center and monitoring students for effects, and the center said it received about 20 related calls.
  • Officials apologized to families, stated that safety protocols are being reviewed, and noted that the cause of the contamination remains under investigation.