Lay’s Potato Chips Recall: FDA Issues Highest Risk Level Warning

Lay’s Potato Chips have been hit with a significant recall, affecting over 6,300 bags across two U.S. states.

The FDA has classified the recall as a Class 1, its highest risk level, due to the potential for serious health consequences.

Key Details of the Recall

On December 13, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recalled 6,344 bags of Lay’s Classic Potato Chips distributed in Oregon and Washington.

The recall stems from the presence of undeclared milk, which can pose severe health risks to individuals with milk allergies. The FDA issued the risk classification on January 27.

Why the Class 1 Recall Matters

A Class 1 recall indicates that consuming the product could lead to “serious adverse health consequences or death,” according to the FDA.

In this case, the chips contained milk that was not declared on the label, a significant concern for those with milk allergies.

Milk ranks among the FDA’s eight “major food allergens,” which can trigger symptoms ranging from mild hives and cramps to severe reactions like swelling of the vocal cords or even unconsciousness.

What Consumers Need to Know

Lay’s voluntarily initiated the recall after a customer reported the issue.

The recall applies specifically to 13 oz. bags of Lay’s Classic Potato Chips, with no other Lay’s products affected.

Affected bags can be identified by their “guaranteed fresh” date of February 11 and manufacturing codes 6462307xx or 6463307xx.

Consumers in Oregon and Washington who purchased these chips are advised to dispose of them immediately, particularly if someone in their household has a milk allergy.

Broader Context: FDA’s Recent Allergen Recalls

The Lay’s recall is one of several food recalls this January involving undeclared allergens. Other notable cases include:

• NuGo Granola Bars (undeclared milk, January 10)
• Pearl Milling Company Pancake and Waffle Mix (undeclared milk, January 15)
• Monkfish Liver from New York Mutual Trading Co. (undeclared milk, January 16)
• Monkey Spit Barbecue Sauces (undeclared milk, wheat, and soy, January 16)
• Shirakiku Corn Puffs (undeclared milk, January 20)
• Dierbergs Kitchen Mashed Potatoes (undeclared wheat, January 7)
• My Mochi Peach Mango Sorbets (undeclared egg, January 10)
• Colussi Cantuccini Chocolate Chip Cookies (undeclared almonds, January 21)

These incidents underscore the importance of clear food labeling and prompt recalls to protect consumers from potential health risks.

What Happens Next?

If you have purchased the recalled Lay’s chips, check the packaging for the affected date and manufacturing codes.

Dispose of the product immediately if it matches the recall details, and monitor for further updates from the FDA or Lay’s. Consumers with questions can contact Lay’s customer service for more information.