Class I Recall Issued for Serious Health Risks in Oregon and Washington

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a Class I recall for Lay’s Classic Potato Chips due to the presence of undeclared milk. This poses a severe health risk, including life-threatening allergic reactions, for individuals with milk allergies. Consumers in Oregon and Washington are urged to check their products and take immediate action.

Details of the Recall

The recall affects a limited batch of 13 oz. Lay’s Classic Potato Chips distributed in Oregon and Washington. These chips were sold through retail stores and e-commerce platforms starting November 3, 2024. The affected products carry a “guaranteed fresh” date of February 11, 2025, and have manufacturing codes 6462307xx or 6463307xx. In total, 6,344 bags are impacted by this recall.

Health Risks and Frito-Lay’s Response

Frito-Lay voluntarily initiated the recall after receiving a consumer complaint regarding potential allergen contamination. While no illnesses have been reported, the FDA warns that consuming these chips could lead to severe allergic reactions or even death for those with milk allergies.

Why This Recall is Critical

The FDA’s Class I recall classification is the most serious, reserved for situations where the product poses a critical risk to consumer health. Undeclared allergens, such as milk, are a leading cause of severe allergic reactions, making it essential for affected consumers to dispose of the product immediately.

Consumer Safety Measures

To safeguard consumers, Frito-Lay is collaborating with the FDA to remove all affected products from store shelves. Customers who have purchased the recalled chips are encouraged to contact Frito-Lay Consumer Relations at 1-800-352-4477 (Monday-Friday, 9 AM – 4:30 PM CST) for refunds or further information.

Regulatory Concerns and Allergen Safety

This recall underscores the increasing concern over undeclared allergens in food products. Regulatory bodies, including the FDA, continue to tighten oversight on food manufacturers to ensure accurate ingredient labeling and prevent contamination.

Recommendations for Consumers

Food safety experts emphasize the importance of strict allergen testing and labeling protocols to protect consumers. To minimize risks, individuals are advised to:

• Carefully read ingredient labels before consuming packaged foods.
• Stay updated on product recalls through official sources like the FDA’s recall database.
• Report any suspected allergic reactions or mislabeling issues to the FDA.

By staying informed and vigilant, consumers can better protect themselves and their families from potential health hazards.

Rohan Kapoor