The FDA Just Upgraded This Massive Potato Chip Recall to the Highest Risk Level
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has upgraded a nationwide recall of nearly 700,000 bags of potato chips to its highest-risk classification, just weeks after the products were first pulled from shelves over a potential health concern.
While the recall initially suggested that the chips in question may have been exposed to or contaminated with salmonella, the new classification means there is now a reasonable chance that using or being exposed to the recalled products could result in serious health issues or, worse, death.
In May 2026, a voluntary recall was initially issued for several styles of potato chips after a third-party supplier notified Utz Quality Foods LLC that a seasoning containing dry milk may be contaminated with salmonella. The issue stemmed from an initial recall initiated by California Dairies Inc. on April 20, after concerns were raised about potential Salmonella contamination in bulk powdered milk and buttermilk.
The first products affected were Ghirardelli powdered beverage mixes, including frappes and hot cocoa in bulk packaging, which were recalled on April 28. Days later, Utz Quality Foods recalled limited varieties of both Zapp's and Dirty brand potato chips after it was determined they contained the affected ingredient in their seasoning blends.
Which Products Are Affected
The affected products include roughly 684,000 bags of Zapp's Bayou Blackened Ranch, Zapp's Salt and Vinegar, Zapp's Big Cheezy, Dirty Salt and Vinegar, Dirty Maui Onion and Dirty Sour Cream and Onion potato chips.
These flavors come in 1.5-, two-, 2.5- and eight-ounce bags, as well as a 60-count box of 1.5-ounce Zapp's Salt and Vinegar chips. If you have any of the affected products at home, check for best-by dates ranging from Monday, July 27 through Monday, Aug. 31.
For more information, you can also check the official FDA recall notice for the full list of affected UPCs, product labels, best-by dates and batch codes.
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What Consumers Should Do Now
Utz says that the affected seasoning batches have tested negative for salmonella, but the company is still proceeding with the recall as a precaution. And while no illnesses have been reported in connection with the recalled chips, the FDA is still urging consumers to exercise an abundance of caution.
Salmonella is a type of bacterium that can cause serious and potentially fatal illness if consumed. Infections can lead to symptoms like diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps and, in some cases, can become severe, particularly in young children, older adults and those with weakened immune systems.
If you believe you are experiencing these symptoms, you should contact your health care provider immediately. Otherwise, any of the above-identified recalled products should not be eaten; they should be thrown away or returned to the store where they were purchased for a refund.
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This story was originally published July 1, 2026 at 9:30 AM.