FDA upgrades recall to highest severity level
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has escalated the recall of over 6,000 bags of Lay’s Classic potato chips to a Class I warning—the most severe risk category—indicating that consumption could potentially result in life-threatening consequences or death.
The recall, initially issued in December 2024, was triggered after concerns emerged that a specific batch of Lay’s Classic chips contained undeclared milk ingredients. According to the FDA, Class I recalls are issued when there is a “reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.”
States affected by the recall
The affected batch, totaling 6,344 bags of 13-ounce Lay’s Classic potato chips, was distributed in Washington and Oregon. Sales began on November 3, 2024, and the product has since been removed from store shelves.
In a statement to USA Today, Frito-Lay confirmed that the recall was carried out in full cooperation with the FDA and that all affected products have been pulled from the marketplace.
Frito-Lay’s response
Frito-Lay issued the following statement:
“Those with an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk run the risk of a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume the recalled product.”
“The recall was executed in December in full cooperation with the FDA when the issue was identified. The recall was limited to two states, and recalled product has been removed from the marketplace.”
The FDA urges consumers who may have purchased the affected product from retail stores or e-commerce platforms to discard the chips immediately.
Milk allergy risks and symptoms
According to the Mayo Clinic, a true milk allergy differs from milk intolerance or lactose intolerance, as it directly involves the immune system and can trigger severe reactions.
Common symptoms of a milk allergy include:
- Mild to moderate reactions: Wheezing, vomiting, coughing, shortness of breath
- Severe reactions: Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, itching or tingling sensations around the mouth, and hives
- Life-threatening reactions: Anaphylaxis, which can cause severe breathing difficulties and require immediate medical intervention
Consumers with milk allergies or severe sensitivities are strongly advised to check their purchases and avoid consuming any recalled products to prevent serious health risks.
