FDA upgrades popular potato chip recall to highest risk over salmonella

The Food and Drug Administration has upgraded a recall of certain Utz Quality Foods potato chips to its highest risk classification, warning consumers ahead of the Fourth of July holiday that the products carry a reasonable probability of causing serious health consequences or death if contaminated with salmonella.

The FDA designated the recall as a Class I recall after Utz voluntarily recalled certain Zapp’s and Dirty brand potato chips sold nationwide in May. The products were pulled after the company learned a seasoning ingredient used during production contained dry milk powder that could potentially be contaminated with salmonella.

The timing comes as many Americans stock up on chips and other snacks for Independence Day cookouts and gatherings.

According to the FDA, a Class I recall is issued when there is a reasonable probability that using or being exposed to a product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death. It is the agency’s most serious recall classification.

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The recall covers select Zapp’s Bayou Blackened Ranch, Salt and Vinegar and Big Cheezy potato chips, along with Dirty brand Salt and Vinegar, Maui Onion and Sour Cream and Onion potato chips. The products were sold at retailers nationwide with “Best By” dates ranging from Aug. 3, 2026, through Aug. 31, 2026. No other Utz products are included in the recall.

When Utz announced the voluntary recall in May, the company told FOX Business that the seasoning used on the affected chips had initially tested negative for salmonella before production. It later learned from an ingredient supplier that the seasoning contained dry milk powder sourced from California Dairies Inc. through a third-party supplier that was subject to a separate recall.

The company said it initiated the recall out of an abundance of caution and had not received any reports of illness linked to the affected products.

“We are working in coordination with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on this recall,” Utz said in a statement at the time.

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The potato chips are among dozens of products recalled after being linked to the contaminated dry milk ingredient, which has also prompted recalls involving other snack foods and seasonings.

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Consumers who purchased the affected chips should not eat them and should discard the products.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, salmonella can cause fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. While most healthy people recover without treatment, infections can become severe or even life-threatening for young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems. In rare cases, the bacteria can spread to the bloodstream and cause more serious complications.

FOX Business’ Matthew Kazin also contributed to this report.