FBI: substance poured on food at Ann Arbor Whole Foods not harmful

ANN ARBOR, Mich. (WJBK) - Federal officials are involved in the search for a man who poured a mysterious substance on food at a Whole Foods in Ann Arbor. However, though they say the substance is not toxic, they still want to find the guy responsible.

The man is believed to have contaminated the food at a salad bar inside the Whole Foods on Eisenhower on Sunday. An employee spotted the man sprinkling something on the food at the salad bar. It has some shoppers concerned that he's done this before.

"I think we have to ask ourselves does this happen anywhere else?" Kevin Williams said.

The man was clearly caught on camera and store managers called Ann Arbor Police about the man. A spokesperson for the FBI said a preliminary test of the liquid did not prove to be harmful but says that doesn't mean it is safe. They say the investigation is ongoing.

A Whole foods representative, Allison Phelps, released this statement:

"After witnessing an individual pouring a liquid on items at the food bars at the 990 W. Eisenhower Whole Foods Market location, a team member alerted store leadership to the suspicious activity and the Ann Arbor Police Department was notified.  Out of an abundance of caution, all salad and hot food bars were immediately closed down at the store, all food was thrown out and the store team thoroughly cleaned and sanitized all food stations, equipment and serving utensils before restocking with fresh items.  Whole Foods Market is cooperating fully with the Ann Arbor Police Department on this matter, and all surrounding Michigan store locations have been notified of the incident. Additional questions should be directed to the Ann Arbor Police Department."

Those who are able to identify the man or have any additional information should call the FBI at (855) 324-7257.