The FDA Just Upgraded a Popular Potato Chip Recall to Its Highest Risk Level
Potato chips are usually the safest thing on the snack table. That's what makes this latest recall worth a closer look.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has upgraded an ongoing potato chip recall of certain Zapp's and Dirty Chips to a Class I recall, the agency's most serious classification. This designation is used when there’s a reasonable probability that exposure to the product could cause serious health consequences or even death.
Before you panic and throw out every bag in your pantry, it's important to know that the recall only affects specific products and flavors.
Why the Chips Are Being Recalled
The issue isn't actually the potatoes. The recall was triggered after the company learned that a seasoning ingredient containing dry milk powder may have been contaminated with Salmonella.
That ingredient came from a supplier further up the supply chain. Utz said the seasoning batches tested negative for Salmonella before they were used. Still, the company chose to move forward with a voluntary recall out of caution.
No illnesses have been reported so far.
Which Chips Are Included?
The recall involves limited varieties of Zapp's and Dirty potato chips sold nationwide.
Products included in the Zapp's Chips recall include:
Bayou Blackened Ranch Potato Chips
Big Cheezy Potato Chips
Salt and Vinegar Potato Chips
The Dirty Chips recall includes certain bags of:
Salt and Vinegar Potato Chips
Maui Onion Potato Chips
Sour Cream and Onion Potato Chips
Affected products were sold nationwide and carry specific package sizes and best-by dates.
Be sure to check the FDA’s recall notice for a complete list of the affected products before you throw anything away.
What Does a Class I Recall Mean?
Not all recalls have the same level of concern. But, an FDA Class I recall is the agency's highest risk category.
It doesn't mean people have become ill, but it does mean regulators believe there’s a reasonable probability that exposure to the affected product could lead to serious health consequences.
That's why this latest update is getting so much attention. The recall itself was announced weeks ago. What's new is the FDA's decision to elevate it to its most serious classification.
What Should You Do If You Have Them?
If one of the recalled products is sitting in your pantry, don’t eat it.
Instead, throw it away or return it for a refund. Utz has provided customer service resources if you have any questions about the affected products.
A Quick Pantry Check Might Be Worth It
The summer season is peak chip season. Between backyard barbecues, road trips, and beach days, a lot of us have a bag or two tucked away in the kitchen.
Fortunately, this Salmonella food recall is limited to specific flavors and package sizes, and no illnesses have been reported.
Still, when the FDA assigns its highest risk classification to a recall, it's a good reminder to take a quick look through your snack cabinet before opening the next bag.
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