Hanover, Pennsylvania — A nationwide recall involving several popular potato chip varieties has become more serious after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) upgraded it to a Class I recall, the agency’s highest warning level for products that could potentially cause severe illness or even death.
The recall, originally announced by Utz Quality Foods LLC on April 28, involves a limited number of Zapp’s and Dirty brand potato chips that may be contaminated with Salmonella through a seasoning ingredient containing dry milk powder.
Although no illnesses have been reported, health officials are urging consumers to check their pantries and avoid eating any affected products.
FDA Elevates Recall to Its Highest Risk Level
The FDA recently classified the ongoing recall as a Class I recall, which is reserved for situations where there is “a reasonable probability that the use of or exposure to a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.”
According to Utz, the recall began after the company was informed that a seasoning containing dry milk powder, supplied by a third-party vendor and sourced from California Dairies, Inc., may contain Salmonella.
The recall affects only specific batches of certain potato chip products. No other Utz Quality Foods products are included in the recall.
Why Salmonella Can Be Dangerous
Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause salmonellosis, a foodborne illness that typically develops between six hours and six days after consuming contaminated food.
Common symptoms include:
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Abdominal cramps
- Nausea and vomiting in some cases
Most healthy people recover within four to seven days, but the infection can become severe for young children, older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems. In some cases, hospitalization may be required.
While there have been no confirmed illnesses linked to this recall, public health officials continue to advise consumers not to take any risks.
Which Potato Chips Are Included in the Recall?
The recall includes multiple sizes and batch codes of the following products sold at retailers across the United States:
- Zapp’s Bayou Blackened Ranch Potato Chips
- Dirty Salt and Vinegar Potato Chips
- Zapp’s Salt and Vinegar Potato Chips (60-count packs)
- Dirty Maui Onion Potato Chips
- Zapp’s Big Cheezy Potato Chips
- Dirty Sour Cream and Onion Potato Chips
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The affected products carry best-by dates ranging from late July through August 31, 2026. Consumers should carefully check the UPC numbers, batch codes, and best-by dates listed in the official recall notice to determine whether their chips are included.
What Consumers Should Do Next
Anyone who has purchased one of the recalled products should not eat it, even if it appears normal.
Instead, consumers are advised to throw the product away or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Utz has emphasized that the recall is limited to the identified products, and all other items manufactured by the company remain unaffected.
The FDA also continues to monitor the recall while reminding consumers that prompt action can help prevent potential foodborne illnesses.
Have you checked your pantry for any of these recalled chips? What steps do you take to stay informed about food recalls? Share your thoughts and experiences respectfully in the comments below.