Lay's Potato Chip Recall: A Comprehensive Overview

In late December 2024, Frito-Lay issued a recall for Lay's Classic Potato Chips due to the presence of undeclared milk, a top food allergen. This recall has since been escalated to a Class I recall, the highest risk level, by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Here's a detailed look at the latest information surrounding this recall:

Recall Details

Product: Lay's Classic Potato Chips (13 oz.)
UPC Code: 28400 31041
Best By Date: February 11, 2025
Manufacturing Codes: 6462307xx OR 6463307xx
Distribution: The affected chips were distributed in Oregon and Washington through retail stores and e-commerce platforms.

Reason for Recall

The recall was initiated after a consumer complaint alerted Frito-Lay to the potential allergen contamination. The undeclared milk poses a serious health risk, especially to individuals with milk allergies, as it can cause severe allergic reactions, including life-threatening anaphylactic reactions.

FDA Classification

The FDA classified this recall as a Class I recall, indicating a "reasonable probability" that consuming the product could cause serious adverse health consequences or even death. This is the most severe classification of recall, reserved for situations where the risk to consumer health is critical.

Consumer Advisory

Consumers who have purchased the affected Lay's Classic Potato Chips are advised to:

Do not consume the product if you have a milk allergy.
Dispose of the chips immediately to prevent accidental ingestion.
Contact Frito-Lay Consumer Relations at 1-800-352-4477 for refunds or further information.
Visit the FDA's official recall database for additional details.

Impact and Response

As of the latest updates, no illnesses have been reported in connection with this recall. Frito-Lay has taken steps to ensure that all affected products are removed from store shelves and has reassured consumers that no other Lay's products, flavors, or variety packs are impacted.

Broader Implications

This recall highlights the increasing concern over undeclared allergens in food products. The FDA continues to monitor and enforce strict labeling requirements to protect consumers, particularly those with severe allergies. Recalls like this not only affect consumer trust and brand reputation but also emphasize the importance of food safety standards.

For further updates and details on this recall, consumers are encouraged to visit the Frito-Lay website or contact their Consumer Relations team.