In a precautionary move that affects snack lovers across the United States, Utz Quality Foods has issued a voluntary recall of several varieties of its popular Zapp’s and Dirty brand potato chips due to concerns over possible Salmonella contamination.

The recall, announced on May 4–5, 2026, and publicized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), stems from a third-party ingredient supplier rather than any direct contamination found in the finished products. To date, no illnesses have been reported in connection with the recalled chips.

Why the Recall Was Issued

The issue traces back to a dry milk powder used in certain chip seasonings. This ingredient, supplied by California Dairies, Inc., was subject to its own recall due to potential Salmonella presence. Although the seasoning batches used by Utz tested negative prior to production, the company is acting out of an abundance of caution by recalling the affected potato chip products.

This is part of a broader ripple effect, as the same milk powder supplier has triggered recalls and public health alerts for other food items in recent weeks, including certain frozen pizzas.

Affected Products

The recall is limited to specific flavors, sizes, and production codes of Zapp’s and Dirty potato chips. The products were distributed nationwide through various retail stores.

Key recalled items include:

• Zapp’s Bayou Blackened Ranch Potato Chips (multiple sizes: 1.5 oz, 2.5 oz, and 8 oz)
• Zapp’s Big Cheezy Potato Chips (2.5 oz and 8 oz)
• Zapp’s Salt and Vinegar Potato Chips (1.5 oz)
• Dirty Maui Onion Potato Chips (2 oz)
• Dirty Salt and Vinegar Potato Chips (1.5 oz and 2 oz)
• Dirty Sour Cream and Onion Potato Chips (2 oz)

Each product has specific “Best By” dates (primarily in July and August 2026) and batch codes listed in the official FDA notice. Consumers are advised to check the packaging carefully against the official list.

What Consumers Should Do

If you have any of the recalled products at home:

• Do not consume them.
• Discard the chips safely.
• Contact Utz Customer Care at 1-877-423-0149 (Monday–Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST) for a refund or further instructions.

No other Utz products are affected by this recall.

Understanding the Health Risk

Salmonella is a common cause of foodborne illness. Symptoms typically appear 6 hours to 6 days after exposure and can include diarrhea, fever, stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting. Most healthy individuals recover within a week, but young children, elderly people, and those with weakened immune systems face a higher risk of severe complications.

Because the risk here is considered low and no illnesses have been linked to the chips, health authorities emphasize vigilance rather than panic.

A Reminder on Food Safety

This recall highlights the complexity of modern food supply chains and the importance of robust supplier oversight. Even large, reputable manufacturers like Utz rely on multiple ingredient sources, making proactive recalls an essential part of protecting public health.

Consumers are encouraged to stay informed about food recalls through official channels such as the FDA website and to regularly check their pantries, especially for products with longer shelf lives.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit the official FDA recall page or the Utz website.