The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has elevated its classification of a nationwide potato chip recall to its most critical status due to potential bacterial contamination. More than 600,000 bags of snacks produced by Utz Quality Foods are now subject to a Class I designation, which indicates a situation in which “there is a reasonable probability that the use of or exposure to a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.”

The safety alert encompasses nine specific configurations of the manufacturer’s Zapp’s and Dirty brand potato chips distributed across 35 states. Recalled varieties include Zapp’s Bayou Blackened Ranch, Big Cheezy, and Salt and Vinegar flavors, alongside Dirty brand Salt and Vinegar, Maui Onion, and Sour Cream and Onion varieties. The affected retail packaging spans sizes from 1.5-ounce convenience bags to 8-ounce family sizes, all carrying stamped expiration dates falling between July 27 and Aug. 31, 2026.  Although Utz said the seasoning batches used in production tested negative for Salmonella before being added to the chips, the company moved forward with the recall after learning of the supplier’s issue.

The regulatory escalation originates from a broader supply chain disruption involving powdered dairy ingredients. Utz originally initiated a voluntary withdrawal of the products on April 28 after learning that a third-party vendor utilized dry milk powder from California Dairies, Inc., which faced a separate recall over possible Salmonella presence. Company representatives clarified that initial tests of the specific seasoning shipments did not detect the pathogen, but the inventory was pulled “out of an abundance of caution.” Corporate spokespeople noted that the newly announced federal rating reflects standard administrative processing schedules rather than any fresh environmental findings or emerging hazards at their facilities.

Public health agencies and the manufacturer report that zero illnesses or medical complaints have been verified in connection with the chip varieties to date. Major grocery chains and regional distributors have been instructed to remove the remaining stock from store inventory immediately.

Consumers are advised not to eat the recalled chips and should discard them or return them to the place of purchase for a refund. Only the specific recalled Zapp’s and Dirty products are affected, and no other Utz-branded products are included in the action. Consumers seeking additional information or refunds can contact Utz Customer Care.

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