Taco Bell Chihuahua Voice Actor Dines Amid Outbreak, Warns Fans

Carlos Alazraqui, the voice behind the iconic Taco Bell Chihuahua, has revealed that he recently dined at the fast-food chain despite a nationwide outbreak of a diarrheal illness. He ordered a Crunchy Beef Burrito with nacho fries and two tacos, and he says he feels perfectly fine. "I survived!" he joked.

The outbreak has been linked to lettuce served at Taco Bell, and health officials are investigating the chain. Alazraqui admitted that his meal included the suspected ingredient, but he had no issues afterward.

The actor speculated that he might have received extra-careful treatment because he is the voice of the famous dog from the 1997 commercial. Still, he warned that if he were the mascot today, he would tell customers to "proceed with caution."

The "Yo quiero Taco Bell" Chihuahua became a cultural phenomenon in the late 1990s, but the campaign was pulled in 2000 amid accusations of ethnic stereotyping.

Currently, Taco Bell is under investigation for potential links to the outbreak, which has affected over 30 states. Not everyone who got sick ate at Taco Bell, and Alazraqui's experience suggests that the risk may be lower than feared.

Fans of the actor and the chain are watching closely, with many noting that his story highlights the importance of food safety without causing unnecessary panic.