Nationwide Potato Chip Recall Linked to Salmonella Risk

Potato chip fans should check their pantries. Utz Quality Foods has issued a voluntary recall for popular brands Zapp’s and Dirty, which are sold at retail stores nationwide. 

The recall was announced on May 4, and is due to a possible Salmonella risk tied to certain seasoning used in the chips. 

According to the FDA, the concern comes from dry milk powder sourced from California Dairies, Inc. that were supplied through a third-party vendor. 

It is important to know that the seasoning batches used by Utz tested negative before use, but the company is recalling the potato chips out of caution. 

To date, there are no illnesses reported related to the recall notice. 

What’s being recalled?

The recall covers several bags. The following is data from the FDA:

• 1.5 oz Zapp’s Bayou Blackened Ranch Potato Chips, UPC 83791272917, best by Aug. 3, Aug. 10, Aug. 17, and Aug. 24, 2026
• 2.5 oz Zapp’s Bayou Blackened Ranch Potato Chips, UPC 83791272924, best by Aug. 3, Aug. 17, and Aug. 31, 2026
• 8 oz Zapp’s Bayou Blackened Ranch Potato Chips, UPC 83791272931, best by July 27, Aug. 3, Aug. 10, and Aug. 17, 2026
• 2 oz Dirty Salt and Vinegar Potato Chips, UPC 83791520148, best by Aug. 3 and Aug. 10, 2026
• 1.5 oz Zapp’s Salt and Vinegar Potato Chips, 60 count, UPC 83791010144, best by Aug. 3 and Aug. 10, 2026
• 2 oz Dirty Maui Onion Potato Chips, UPC 83791520162, best by Aug. 8, 2026
• 2.5 oz Zapp’s Big Cheezy Potato Chips, UPC 83791192208, best by Aug. 31, 2026
• 8 oz Zapp’s Big Cheezy Potato Chips, UPC 83791192246, best by Aug. 31, 2026
• 2 oz Dirty Sour Cream and Onion Potato Chips, UPC 83791520094, best by Aug. 31, 2026

Check the flavor, size, UPC, best-by date, and batch code before throwing away anything in your pantry. If you have a bag that matches the recall, follow the steps listed below. 

The health concern behind the recall

EatingWell reports that the recall is linked to dry milk powder used in the product, rather than any positive test result for Salmonella. Regardless, Salmonella is nothing to shrug off, especially for older adults, young children, and people with weaker immune systems. 

Symptoms can include fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain, according to the FDA. In rare cases, Salmonella can lead to more serious illness if it enters the bloodstream. 

Where were the chips sold?

The Los Angeles Times reported that the recalled snacks were sold nationwide under the Zapp’s and Dirty brands. The FDA notice also states no other Utz Quality Foods products are included in this recall. 

What to do if you have the chips

According to Utz Quality Foods, consumers who have any of the recalled chips should discard them. For questions or refunds, customers can contact Utz Customer Care at 1-877-423-0149, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time.