FDA Escalates Utz Brands Potato Chip Recall to Highest Risk Level

The ongoing recall of select Utz Quality Foods potato chip brands has been elevated to a Class I classification by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), indicating a high risk of serious adverse health consequences or death from potential Salmonella contamination. The contamination was traced to a seasoning ingredient containing dry milk powder, supplied by a third-party vendor and sourced from California Dairies, Inc.

Utz Quality Foods initially announced the recall of certain Zapp's and Dirty brand potato chips on April 28. The FDA's Class I designation signifies a severe public health concern. Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause severe and potentially fatal infections, particularly in young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Symptoms of salmonellosis, the illness caused by Salmonella, typically include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever, appearing within six hours to six days after consuming contaminated food. The illness usually resolves within four to seven days.

To date, no illnesses have been reported in connection with this recall. Consumers who have purchased the affected products are advised to discard them and contact Utz Quality Foods for a refund. The company has stated that no other Utz products are impacted by this recall.

The recalled chips, distributed nationwide, include various flavors and sizes of Zapp's brands such as Bayou Blackened Ranch, Salt and Vinegar, Big Cheezy, and Dirty brand Salt and Vinegar, and Maui Onion. The recall encompasses specific batch codes and best-by dates, with affected products ranging from 1.5 oz bags to 8 oz bags, as well as 60-count cases.