6 Individuals Hospitalized Following Chemical Exposure at M&M Mars Chocolate Factory in Tennessee

Early Friday morning, seven employees at the M&M Mars plant in Cleveland, Tennessee, were evaluated after exposure to a chemical, according to local authorities. The event occurred shortly after 9 a.m. on Peerless Road, triggering a response from Bradley County EMS and the Cleveland Fire Department.

Of the seven workers, six were transported to hospitals for further careone to Erlanger Medical Center and five to Bradley Medical Center. The seventh employee received treatment on-site and was released soon afterward.

Deputy Chief Pete Van Dusen of the Cleveland Fire Department reported that the exposure involved chlorine gas, which was confined to a single section of the facility. Operations in the affected area were temporarily suspended while emergency crews and Mars Wrigley personnel assessed the situation. Monitoring confirmed that the air was safe and that there was no risk to the public or ongoing threat beyond the plant.

Mars Wrigley emphasized that safety is their highest priority, confirming that all involved individuals were secured and that the incident did not affect the community or any products produced at the facility. Company representatives noted that their on-site team collaborated closely with first responders to quickly address the situation.

The Cleveland plant produces a range of candy items, including M&Ms, Peanut Butter M&Msthe only facility in the U.S. producing themTwix, and Altoids. Bradley County EMS commended the coordinated response by the Cleveland Fire Department, plant management, and on-site safety staff.

Authorities indicated that further details might be shared as the investigation continues.

Author: Lucas Grant