FDA Upgrades Potato Chip Recall to Highest Level Over Salmonella Risk

Sources Agree
  • July 3, 2026 at 10:32 AM ET
  • Est. Read: 2 Mins
FDA Upgrades Potato Chip Recall to Highest Level Over Salmonella RiskAI-generated illustration — does not depict real events

Key Takeaways

The FDA has upgraded its recall of several Utz-branded potato chips to Class I due to potential salmonella contamination from dry milk powder used in seasoning. Over 650,000 bags across nine varieties are affected.

  • FDA issues highest-level recall for Zapp's and Dirty brand potato chips
  • Contamination risk linked to dry milk powder in seasoning ingredient
  • Approximately 684,000 chip bags recalled from retail stores nationwide
  • No illnesses reported as of latest updates

Source Claims Check

High Consensus
All 3 publishers report consistent facts across 3 key claims.
ClaimStatusReason
Recall ClassificationBroad AgreementClass I recall for salmonella risk
Contamination SourceBroad AgreementDry milk powder in seasoning ingredient sourced from California Dairies Inc.
Number Of Affected BagsBroad AgreementApproximately 650,000-684,000 chip bags recalled
Recall Classification
Broad Agreement
Class I recall for salmonella risk
Contamination Source
Broad Agreement
Dry milk powder in seasoning ingredient sourced from California Dairies Inc.
Number Of Affected Bags
Broad Agreement
Approximately 650,000-684,000 chip bags recalled
This analysis is AI-generated and may not perfectly represent each source's reporting. Always read the original articles for full context.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has upgraded a recall for several varieties of Utz-branded potato chips to its highest risk level due to potential contamination with salmonella. According to multiple reports, the voluntary recall issued by Utz Quality Foods in May now falls under Class I classification, indicating 'a reasonable probability that use or exposure will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.' The affected products include Zapp's and Dirty brand chips in various sizes and flavors.

The contamination risk stems from dry milk powder used in a seasoning ingredient sourced from California Dairies Inc. through an unspecified third-party vendor, as reported by Daily Mail. Although the seasoning batches tested negative for salmonella before use, Utz initiated the recall 'out of an abundance of caution,' per The Guardian and UPI.

The recall affects over 650,000 bags with best-by dates ranging from late July to August across nearly three dozen states. Specific varieties include Zapp's Bayou Blackened Ranch Kettle Chips, Dirty Brand Salt and Vinegar Potato Chips, and several others in various package sizes. As of the latest updates, no illnesses have been reported in connection with these products.

Salmonella is a leading cause of foodborne illness in the US, infecting about 1.35 million people annually according to CDC estimates. Symptoms typically appear within eight to 72 hours and include diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever, nausea, and vomiting. While most infected individuals recover without treatment, severe cases may require hospitalization or antibiotics.

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