The Food and Drug Administration has elevated its recall of Utz’s Dirty and Zapp’s potato chips to Class 1, the most serious classification. The chips are part of a widespread recall of powdered milk and buttermilk distributed to manufacturers across the country over concerns about Salmonella contamination.
A recall was first issued by California Dairies Inc. on April 20, 2026, over the powdered milk sent to different companies for a variety of products, including everything from frozen pizzas to salad dressings. Utz then issued its own voluntary recall of Zapps and Dirty potato chips on May 4 because the seasonings contained dry milk powder from California Dairies, supplied to Utz by an unnamed third party.
The chips were initially issued under a Class 2 recall, which the FDA defines as having the potential to “cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.”
Under a Class 1 recall, the contamination creates a situation where “there is a reasonable probability that the use of or exposure to a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.”
The company has not reported any serious health consequences from consuming Dirty and Zapp’s chips and has previously said the recall is being done “out of an abundance of caution.” Utz didn’t immediately respond to questions emailed on Thursday about whether there have been any consumer reports of illnesses since its initial May 4 recall notice.
People infected with Salmonella typically experience nausea, vomiting, fever, and diarrhea. But if Salmonella enters the bloodstream, it can cause more serious illnesses like aneurysms or endocarditis, according to the FDA. Young children and the elderly can also experience more severe adverse reactions to Salmonella.
There are an estimated 1.35 million cases of salmonellosis in the U.S. each year, with 26,500 hospitalizations and 420 deaths, according to the CDC. Salmonellosis is the second most common cause of foodborne illness in the U.S., just behind norovirus.
Anyone who finds they have one of the recalled products is encouraged not to eat it and throw it away. Consumers who have questions can call the Utz Customer Care team by calling 1-877-423-0149, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET.
The recalled potato chips are listed below with their best-by dates. More detailed UPC and batch code information can be found at the FDA’s website.
1.5oz Zapp’s® Brand Bayou Blackened Ranch Potato Chips
Best By dates:
- 3-Aug-26
- 10-Aug-26
- 17-Aug-26
- 24-Aug-26
2.5oz Zapp’s® Brand Bayou Blackened Ranch Potato Chips
Best By dates:
- 3-Aug-26
- 17-Aug-26
- 31-Aug-26
8oz Zapp’s® Brand Bayou Blackened Ranch Potato Chips
Best By dates:
- 27-Jul-26
- 3-Aug-26
- 10-Aug-26
- 17-Aug-26
2oz Dirty® Brand Salt and Vinegar Potato Chips
Best By dates:
1.5oz Zapp’s® Brand Salt and Vinegar Potato Chips (60ct)
Best By dates:
2oz Dirty® Brand Maui Onion Potato Chip
Best By dates:
2.5oz Zapp’s® Brand Big Cheezy Potato Chip
Best By dates:
8oz Zapp’s® Brand Big Cheezy Potato Chip
Best By dates:
2oz Dirty® Brand Sour Cream and Onion Potato Chips
Best By dates:
The FDA’s website lists 11 other products associated with the powdered milk recall, though it hasn’t been updated since June 1 and shouldn’t be considered comprehensive.
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