Updated
Updated · NBC News · Jul 2
FDA Elevates Utz Chip Recall to Class 1, Affecting 650,000 Bags Over Salmonella Risk
Updated
Updated · NBC News · Jul 2

FDA Elevates Utz Chip Recall to Class 1, Affecting 650,000 Bags Over Salmonella Risk

3 articles · Updated · NBC News · Jul 2

Summary

  • More than 650,000 bags of Utz’s Dirty and Zapp’s potato chips are now under the FDA’s most serious recall classification, meaning exposure could reasonably cause severe illness or death.
  • The May recall stemmed from dry milk powder used in chip seasoning after a supplier tied to California Dairies raised salmonella concerns, even though Utz said the powder tested negative before use.
  • Six product varieties across multiple bag sizes are affected, including Zapp’s Bayou Blackened Ranch, Salt and Vinegar, Big Cheezy, and Dirty Salt and Vinegar, Maui Onion, and Sour Cream and Onion chips.
  • Utz said no illnesses had been reported when it announced the voluntary recall and advised consumers not to eat the chips, discard them, and seek refunds through the company.

Insights

With zero reported illnesses, why did the FDA just declare these potato chips a potentially fatal threat?
One tainted ingredient sparked a recall. Which other snacks in your pantry could be affected next?
A chip recall is now Class I. Why did it take two months to warn the public of the deadliest risk?