Lay's potato chips recalled in two US states citing life-threatening allergy risk

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has escalated a recall of Lay's Classic Potato Chips to its highest level after the product was found to contain an undeclared ingredient that could pose a serious health risk.

The recall affects 13 oz bags of Lay's Classic Potato Chips distributed in Oregon and Washington, with concerns that the product may contain milk, a potential allergen for many consumers. Approximately 4.9 million Americans suffer from milk allergies, which are particularly prevalent in children.

Milk allergy symptoms can range from mild to severe and include wheezing, vomiting, hives, and digestive issues. In severe cases, an allergic reaction can lead to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition that narrows the airways and impedes breathing.

Milk is the third most common food allergen responsible for anaphylaxis in the US, following peanuts and tree nuts. An estimated 500 to 1,000 people die each year from anaphylaxis-related incidents.

The FDA initially issued the recall in mid-December but has since upgraded the situation to a 'Class I' recall. This classification refers to situations in which there is a reasonable probability that exposure to the product could cause serious adverse health consequences or death.

The FDA has not disclosed why the classification was elevated, but officials stress that individuals with a milk allergy or severe sensitivity should avoid consuming the recalled product due to the risk of a life-threatening reaction.

Frito-Lay, the producer of the popular snack brand, was alerted to the issue by a consumer. The affected product was distributed to specific retail stores and e-commerce platforms in Oregon and Washington, with chips available for purchase as early as November 3, 2024.

The recalled bags feature a 'Guaranteed Fresh' date of February 11, 2025, and are marked with manufacturing codes 6462307xx or 6463307xx.

To date, there have been no reports of allergic reactions or illnesses linked to the recall. Importantly, no other Lay's products, flavors, or sizes are affected by this recall.

Consumers who have milk allergies or sensitivities are advised to immediately discard the affected bags and refrain from eating them.

Frito-Lay has previously dealt with similar issues, having issued another recall in May 2023 for Lay's Classic Potato Chips distributed in several northeastern US states due to the accidental presence of undeclared milk from cross-contamination with other flavors.