FDA elevates potato chip recall to highest risk due to salmonella concerns

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has escalated the recall of certain Utz Quality Foods potato chips to a Class I designation, indicating a serious health risk in light of recent findings. The alert comes just ahead of the Fourth of July holiday, a time when many consumers are preparing for cookouts and social gatherings. This precaution follows the company’s voluntary withdrawal of select Zapp’s and Dirty brand potato chips sold across the nation beginning in May.

The recall was initiated after the company discovered that a seasoning ingredient used in the production of these chips contained dry milk powder that poses a risk of salmonella contamination. As a result, the FDA has classified the recall as Class I, the most severe category, which applies when there is a reasonable probability that exposure to the product could lead to serious adverse health consequences or even death.

Affected products include Zapp’s Bayou Blackened Ranch, Salt and Vinegar, and Big Cheezy potato chips, as well as Dirty brand Salt and Vinegar, Maui Onion, and Sour Cream and Onion varieties. Retail outlets nationwide have distributed these items, which carry “Best By” dates ranging from August 3, 2026, to August 31, 2026. Importantly, the FDA has specified that no other Utz products are implicated in this recall.

Utz Quality Foods has publicly stated that the seasonings originally tested negative for salmonella before production began. However, information from a supplier revealed that the dry milk powder used originated from a source involved in a separate recall. Although the company is conducting the recall out of an abundance of caution, it reports no instances of illness linked to the affected chips thus far.

Salmonella, a common yet dangerous pathogen, can cause a range of gastrointestinal symptoms, including fever, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. While healthy individuals typically recover without medical intervention, the bacteria can lead to severe complications for vulnerable populations, such as infants, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems.

Consumers in possession of the recalled potato chips are advised to avoid consumption and discard the products immediately. The FDA continues to monitor the situation closely as the summer season progresses.

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