Kit KittlestadJan 14, 2026 5 min read

Tater Tot Recall: Check Freezers in 26 States

A recall alert highlights frozen tater tots pulled from distribution after concerns about possible hard plastic fragments in select foodservice bags sold in 26 states. Photo Adobe Stock.

If you have frozen potatoes tucked into the back of your freezer, this is a good time to take a quick look at them.

Nearly 39,000 cases of frozen tater tots have been pulled from distribution after reports that some bags may contain plastic pieces. 

The recall affects foodservice-sized products sold under both the Ore-Ida and Sysco names.

This update is part of a wider notice often being summarized as tater tots recalled in 26 states, and it’s worth checking, even if you don’t usually buy in bulk.

Nearly 39,000 Cases of Tater Tots Recalled Across 26 States

The issue is possible contamination with clear, hard plastic fragments. These pieces could cause choking or mouth injuries if eaten.

The products are made by McCain Foods USA, and the recall is voluntary. It was issued after potential plastic fragments were discovered during quality checks.

This situation is officially labeled as an FDA Class II recall on tater tots. That means the risk is considered moderate. Temporary or reversible health effects are possible, but serious harm is not expected.

So far, no injuries or illnesses have been reported.

Products Affected

The recall mostly involves large foodservice bags, often sold to restaurants, schools, or wholesale buyers. But, if you shop in bulk, you could still have them at home.

Ore-Ida Products

The recalled products are large foodservice bags sold under Ore Ida and Sysco branding, so shoppers should match item numbers, UPCs, and batch codes before using. Photo Adobe Stock.

The Ore-Ida Tater Tots recall includes:

  • Item Number: OIF00215A

  • UPC: 10072714002158

  • Packaging: 30-pound clear poly bags

Batch codes included in the recall:

  • 1005479808

  • 1005477924

  • 1005478883

  • 1005480444

  • 1005480875

  • 1005481627

  • 1005481770

Sysco Products

The Sysco Imperial Potato Tater Barrel recall includes:

  • Item Number: 1000006067

  • UPC: 10734730627400

  • Packaging: 6 bags of 5 pounds each

Batch codes included in the recall:

  • 1005482717

  • 1005483735

  • 1005484702

  • 1005485462

  • 1005485660

Both product lines were manufactured by McCain Foods, which is why you may see the issue referred to as McCain Foods tater tots and plastic fragments in recall notices.

Where the Products Were Sold

The recall covers 26 states across much of the country. Distribution includes parts of the Midwest, South, West Coast, Mountain states, and a few coastal and island regions.

Some of the states involved include:

  • Illinois

  • Iowa

  • Michigan

  • Minnesota

  • Wisconsin

  • California

  • Oregon

  • Washington

  • Texas

  • New Mexico

  • Colorado

  • Florida

  • Louisiana

  • Mississippi

  • Alaska

  • Hawaii

  • Utah

  • Nevada

  • And others

That wide reach is why so many headlines are using the phrase tater tots recalled in 26 states.

What To Do If You Have Them

Start by checking your freezer.

Look for the brand name, item number, UPC, and batch code. These details are usually printed on the back or side of the bag.

If your bag matches the recall, don’t eat it. Throw it away or return it to where you bought it.

If it came from a restaurant or institution, notify the supplier.

Even though the risk is considered moderate, this recall involves hard plastic fragments in frozen potatoes, which isn’t something you want anywhere near your plate.

Why Class II Matters

The FDA lists the action as a Class II recall, meaning temporary or reversible health effects are possible, though serious harm is not expected. Photo Adobe Stock.

A Class II recall means the product could cause temporary or reversible health effects. It’s not considered life-threatening in most cases, but it’s still taken seriously.

This is why the FDA and McCain Foods moved quickly to remove the affected products and notify distributors and buyers.

It also means that checking your bag matters, even if you feel fine or haven’t noticed anything unusual.

Keeping Your Freezer Safe

Most recall notices don’t apply to everyday grocery-store-sized bags. But bulk shoppers, restaurant workers, and anyone who buys large frozen packs should stay alert.

A quick freezer check now can save you from an unpleasant surprise later. And, if you don’t have any of these products, you can breathe easy and move on with dinner as planned.

Staying Smart With Food Recalls

Recalls happen more often than we realize. Most are precautionary, and most never lead to serious injuries.

But, they only work if we actually check our food.

A two-minute freezer check today is a small step that will keep your meals safe and your week running smoothly.

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