The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has elevated its recall of Lay’s Classic Potato Chips to a “Class 1” alert, its most severe classification, due to the presence of undeclared milk.
The FDA first announced on December 18, 2024, that Frito-Lay issued a recall on a “limited number” of the 13 oz bags of chips.
The recall affects 6,344 bags of the 13-ounce Lay’s Classic potato chips sold in retail and online stores.
These Lay’s Classic Potato Chips bags were recalled because they “may contain undeclared milk,” which Frito-Lay learned “after being alerted through a consumer contact.”
The affected chips, distributed in Washington and Oregon, pose significant risks to individuals with allergies or severe sensitivities to milk.
According to the FDA, milk is one of eight “major food allergens” that require clear labeling due to the potential for severe reactions.
Symptoms of milk allergies can range from hives, cramps, and dizziness to more dangerous outcomes, such as swollen vocal cords or unconsciousness.
The FDA emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating that consuming the affected product could lead to “serious adverse health consequences or death.”
How to identify the recalled chips?
The recalled chips can be identified by the “guaranteed fresh” date of February 11 and manufacturing codes “6462307xx” or “6463307xx.”
Frito-Lay has assured customers that this is an isolated incident and that no other Lay’s flavors, sizes, or variety packs are involved.
In a statement, the company confirmed that no allergic reactions tied to the recall have been reported so far.
Consumers who purchased the affected chips are advised to dispose of them immediately, especially if they or someone in their household has a milk allergy.
Those seeking refunds or additional information can contact Frito-Lay directly or return the product to the point of purchase.
Growing concerns over undeclared allergens
The Lay’s chips recall is part of a broader issue of undeclared allergens in food products, which has been a growing concern for regulators and consumers alike.
The FDA recently issued a Class I recall for 12-ounce bags of Marketside Broccoli Florets sold at Walmart, following concerns over potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.
Produced by Braga Fresh, the ready-to-eat broccoli was distributed to Walmart stores across 20 states, including Alaska, Arizona, California, Texas, and Ohio, among others.
Earlier this month, the FDA recalled several other items for similar issues, including NuGo Granola Bars, Pearl Milling Company Pancake & Waffle Mix, and Monkey Spit Barbecue Sauces.
Undeclared milk and other allergens such as wheat, soy, eggs, and almonds have been at the center of numerous recalls, raising questions about food safety standards and labeling transparency.
As food safety remains a priority, the FDA continues to monitor and enforce compliance with labeling regulations to protect consumers from potential health risks.
The agency has urged manufacturers to adopt more rigorous quality control measures to prevent such issues from recurring.
For now, consumers in Washington and Oregon should remain cautious and discard the affected Lay’s chips immediately.
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