West Memphis Chick-Fil-A employees have been fired after a viral video sparked a backlash

WEST MEMPHIS, Ark. (WREG) — A viral video that appeared to show an Arkansas Chick-Fil-A employee spitting into a bowl of chicken batter has left some customers disgusted.

The clip, which was reportedly filmed at a West Memphis restaurant, was initially posted on social media, where it drew intense backlash.

Jonathan Cardwell, the operator of the West Memphis location, could not be reached for comment. However, on the restaurant’s Facebook page, he apologized for the incident and assured the public that the two employees involved – the one who spat and the one who filmed – were fired.

“We have very strict standards and high expectations for food safety, team member behavior and our guest experience and this was a egregious breach of all of the above. You trust us to bring you safe, fresh groceries with a team that genuinely cares about you. We have not lived up to those expectations here,” the statement said, in part.

Despite the online backlash, at least one customer who spoke to Nexstar’s WREG said they hoped the store, which only opened in 2020, wasn’t too badly affected.

“I would say it’s definitely unfortunate, but I wouldn’t let an employee justify what should be done with the business,” said client Skylar Hampton.

The Arkansas Department of Health has also confirmed an investigation into the incident.

“The Arkansas Department of Health and Human Services is taking all restaurant complaints seriously and will conduct an inspection of the facility,” the department said in a statement. “Our environmental health specialists will investigate the complaint and if the allegations made in the complaint are found to be accurate, we will take action to address the issues.”