Potato chips recalled because of Salmonella risk – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Unsplash)
Utz Quality Foods LLC, part of Utz Brands Inc., recalled select varieties of its Zapp’s and Dirty potato chips across the United States. The move came after the company learned that a seasoning used in these products, which included dry milk powder from California Dairies Inc. via a third-party supplier, might contain Salmonella bacteria. No illnesses linked to the chips have surfaced so far.
Background on the Contamination Concern
The recall targeted specific batches where the risky seasoning appeared. Utz acted promptly upon receiving the notification to prevent any potential health issues. Products reached retail stores throughout the country before the recall notice went out.
California Dairies Inc. supplied the dry milk powder incorporated into the seasoning. Third-party handling introduced the uncertainty about Salmonella presence. Company officials emphasized that vigilance in the supply chain prompted this precautionary step.
Affected Products and Identifiers
Consumers should inspect labels for these specific items, sizes, UPC codes, best-by dates, and batch codes. The list covers multiple flavors and packaging options from Zapp’s and Dirty brands.
| Product Name | Size/UPC | Best By Dates | Example Batch Codes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zapp’s Bayou Blackened Ranch Potato Chips | 1.5oz / 83791272917 | 3-Aug-26 to 24-Aug-26 | 26030070101, 26036070102 |
| Zapp’s Bayou Blackened Ranch Potato Chips | 2.5oz / 83791272924 | 3-Aug-26 to 31-Aug-26 | 26029070104, 26044070104 |
| Dirty Salt and Vinegar Potato Chips | 2oz / 83791520148 | 3-Aug-26 to 10-Aug-26 | 26030070104, 26038070102 |
| Zapp’s Big Cheezy Potato Chip | 2.5oz & 8oz / 83791192208, 83791192246 | 31-Aug-26 | 26058070104, 26059070104 |
Additional items include Zapp’s Salt and Vinegar (1.5oz 60ct packs), Dirty Maui Onion (2oz), and Dirty Sour Cream and Onion (2oz), with matching date and batch details. Full verification requires checking all listed codes against purchases.
Salmonella Risks and Symptoms
Salmonella-contaminated food often appears normal, with no off odors or tastes. Infections strike anyone, though infants, young children, seniors, and those with compromised immunity face greater dangers. Healthy adults typically recover in four to seven days, but severe cases demand hospital care.
Symptoms emerge 12 to 72 hours post-exposure: diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever. Medical consultation proves essential for accurate diagnosis, as signs overlap with other conditions. Some carriers remain asymptomatic yet spread the bacteria.
Pregnant women, cancer patients, and similar groups risk graver outcomes, including life-threatening complications.
Steps for Consumers and Next Actions
Anyone who consumed these chips and now experiences symptoms should contact a doctor promptly. Mention the potential Salmonella link to guide testing. Discard or return affected products to retailers.
Utz continues monitoring for complaints. The recall underscores supply chain checks in food production. Staying alert to such notices helps safeguard public health.
This incident highlights ongoing challenges in ingredient sourcing. Prompt recalls like this one limit exposure effectively.
