The recall involves more than 680,000 bags of chips, according to FDA figures, and stems from concerns linked to a seasoning ingredient containing dry milk powder supplied by a third-party vendor. Utz Quality Foods stated in its May 4 announcement that the ingredient tested negative for Salmonella prior to use, but the company proceeded with a voluntary recall after receiving notification from its supplier. According to the company, no illnesses had been reported at the time the action was initiated, and the recall was described as precautionary.
Regulatory Classification and Geographic Reach
The FDA classified the event as a Class I recall in its June 24 report, a designation used when there is a reasonable probability that exposure to a product could cause serious adverse health consequences or death. According to the agency, the affected products were distributed across 35 states, including large portions of the eastern, southern, and central United States.
The recall includes multiple batch codes and production runs tied to several flavor varieties under the Zapp’s and Dirty brands. These include Bayou Blackened Ranch, Salt and Vinegar, Big Cheezy, Maui Onion, and Sour Cream and Onion. Package sizes range from small single-serve formats to larger retail bags, each linked to specific identifiers listed in the recall documentation.
According to the FDA report, the distribution footprint reflects widespread retail circulation rather than a limited regional release. The agency’s classification system places Class I recalls at the highest level of concern based on potential health impact, even when no confirmed illnesses have been reported at the time of listing.
Product Scope and Response
The recall covers a range of potato chip products sold under both brands, spanning multiple flavors and packaging formats. According to the FDA, affected items were removed after concerns were raised about a seasoning ingredient that included dry milk powder sourced from a third-party supplier. The ingredient was tested prior to use, though later flagged through supplier notification.
Utz Quality Foods stated in its public announcement that the recall was voluntary and initiated out of an abundance of caution. According to the company, no complaints or confirmed illnesses had been reported at the time of the recall. The firm also provided consumer guidance instructing customers not to consume affected products and to discard them or seek refunds through designated customer service channels.
Consumers were advised not to eat products and dispose of any affected items, while retailers were instructed to review inventory and remove impacted stock from shelves. According to the FDA, the recall was conducted with regulatory awareness and cooperation, and applies only to the products listed in the notice. No other Utz products are included in the recall scope. The FDA classification remains in effect for listed batches.
