The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has upgraded a recall of potato chips to its highest risk classification, Class I, citing potential contamination with Salmonella. The recall covers nine specific Zapp’s and Dirty brand products made by Utz Quality Foods, sold at retail stores nationwide. A Class I designation is reserved for situations in which there is a reasonable probability that exposure to a product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.

Which chips are actually recalled

According to the FDA enforcement notice, the recall covers nine specific Zapp’s and Dirty brand products made by Utz Quality Foods. No other Utz products are included. These are the affected products, UPC codes, and Best By dates from the official FDA recall announcement:

If you have any of these chips, do not eat them. Throw them away. For questions or a refund, contact Utz Customer Care at 1-877-423-0149, Monday through Friday, 9:00 am–6:00 pm Eastern Time.

Why were the chips recalled?

According to the FDA announcement, a seasoning containing dry milk powder, sourced from California Dairies, Inc. through a third-party supplier, may contain Salmonella. The affected seasoning batches tested negative before use, but Utz recalled the products out of an abundance of caution after its ingredient supplier’s own recall. Utz reports no illnesses connected to these products to date.

Why does Class I matter?

The FDA uses three recall classifications:

• Class I: A dangerous or defective product that could cause serious health problems or death.
• Class II: A product that might cause temporary health problems but is unlikely to cause serious harm.
• Class III: A product that is unlikely to cause any health problem but violates FDA labeling or manufacturing rules.

An upgrade to Class I signals that the agency views the contamination as a credible and severe threat to consumers who ingest the product.

What are the health effects of Salmonella?

Salmonella bacteria are a leading cause of foodborne illness in the United States. Symptoms typically include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, and they usually begin six hours to six days after infection. While most people recover without treatment, the infection can be dangerous for young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems. In severe cases, the bacteria can spread from the intestines to the bloodstream and other body sites, requiring hospitalization.

What should consumers do?

• Check your pantry for the recalled lot. The FDA notice lists the brand, product name, size, UPC, and lot or best-by code.
• Do not consume the affected product. Dispose of it or return it to the place of purchase for a refund.
• Clean any surfaces, containers, or utensils that may have come into contact with the recalled chips, using hot soapy water or a dishwasher.
• Watch for symptoms of salmonellosis if the product has been eaten recently, and contact a healthcare provider if symptoms are severe or persistent.

Where can consumers find the official notice?

Full details, including the firm name, product description, lot numbers, distribution states, and the recall initiation date, are published in the FDA’s Enforcement Reports. Consumers can also subscribe to FDA recall alerts to receive updates by email or RSS.

FAQ

Which specific potato chips are recalled?

Nine Zapp’s and Dirty brand products made by Utz Quality Foods are included in the recall: Zapp’s Bayou Blackened Ranch (1.5 oz, 2.5 oz, and 8 oz), Zapp’s Salt and Vinegar (1.5 oz, 60 ct), Zapp’s Big Cheezy (2.5 oz and 8 oz), Dirty Salt and Vinegar (2 oz), Dirty Maui Onion (2 oz), and Dirty Sour Cream and Onion (2 oz). No other Utz products are part of the recall.

Why was the recall elevated to Class I?

The FDA upgraded the recall to Class I because the affected seasoning, sourced from California Dairies, Inc. through a third-party supplier, may contain Salmonella. Class I is reserved for situations in which there is a reasonable probability that exposure to the product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.

Have any illnesses been reported from the recalled chips?

According to the FDA announcement, Utz reports no illnesses connected to these products to date.

Related coverage

• FDA Elevates Potato Chip Recall to Highest Risk Level Over Salmonella