The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has escalated its recall of certain 13-ounce bags of Frito-Lay potato chips due to the potential presence of undeclared milk, which could pose a serious health risk. The FDA initially announced the voluntary recall by Frito-Lay in December, warning that individuals with a milk allergy or severe sensitivity could experience a serious or even life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume the affected product.
This week, the FDA reclassified the recall as a “Class 1” recall, the most severe level of alert. This classification indicates that consuming the product could lead to “serious adverse health consequences or could cause death.” The recall specifically targets chips distributed in Washington and Oregon and was initiated after a customer reported the issue to the company in December.
Milk is listed among the FDA’s eight “major food allergens” and can provoke severe allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. Symptoms can range from hives, cramps, and dizziness to swollen vocal cords and unconsciousness. The high-risk classification of this recall highlights the potential severity of the allergen’s presence.
Frito-Lay has assured consumers that no allergic reactions related to this recall have been reported so far. The company also clarified that the recall is an isolated incident, affecting no other Lay’s products, flavors, sizes, or variety packs. Consumers who have purchased the recalled chips are advised to dispose of them immediately, particularly if they or someone in their household has a milk allergy.
The affected chips can be identified by a “guaranteed fresh” date of February 11 and a manufacturing code of either “6462307xx” or “6463307xx.” This recall is part of a larger issue of undeclared allergens in food products. In January alone, the FDA recalled several other products for undeclared milk and allergens, including NuGo Granola Bars, Pearl Milling Company Pancake & Waffle Mix, New York Mutual Trading Co. Monkfish Liver, Monkey Spit Barbecue Sauces, and Shirakiku Snack Corn Puffs.
Other food products were also recalled in January for undeclared allergens beyond milk, such as wheat, eggs, soy, and almonds. Consumers in Washington and Oregon who purchased Lay’s Classic Potato Chips with the specified date and manufacturing codes should discard them immediately.
Those with concerns or questions can contact Frito-Lay for further information or seek refunds through their point of purchase. As food safety remains a growing concern, the FDA continues to monitor and address issues related to undeclared allergens, urging manufacturers to ensure transparency in labeling and prevent potential health risks for consumers.