Zapp's and Dirty Potato Chips Recalled Nationwide Over Salmonella Risk from Milk Powder

Key facts

• Zapp's and Dirty potato chips recalled nationwide due to potential Salmonella contamination.
• Recall stems from dry milk powder sourced from California Dairies used in seasoning.
• Seasoning tested negative for Salmonella; recall issued out of abundance of caution.
• from the recalled chips.
• Affected products include Bayou Blackened Ranch, Salt and Vinegar, Big Cheezy, and Maui Onion varieties.
• California Dairies milk powder also linked to recalls of Aldi and Walmart frozen pizzas and pork rinds.
• Salmonella can cause serious infections in young children, elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.

A Nationwide Recall of Popular Chip Brands

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has announced a recall of potato chips from two well-known brands—Zapp’s and Dirty—due to potential Salmonella contamination. The recall, initiated by manufacturer Utz, covers multiple varieties sold in retail stores across the country. The problem originates from dry milk powder used as an ingredient in the chips’ seasoning. That powder, supplied by California Dairies, has itself been recalled because it may contain Salmonella. Although the seasoning tested negative for the pathogen, the FDA stated the recall is being conducted out of an abundance of caution.

Products Affected and Consumer Guidance

Consumers are urged to check their pantries for specific recalled items. The list includes Bayou Blackened Ranch Potato Chips in 1.5-ounce, 2.5-ounce, and 8-ounce bags (UPCs 83791272917, 83791272924, 83791272931); Salt and Vinegar Potato Chips in 60-count boxes of 1.5-ounce bags (UPC 83791010144); Big Cheezy Potato Chips in 2.5-ounce and 8-ounce bags (UPCs 83791192208, 83791192246); Salt and Vinegar Potato Chips in 2-ounce bags (UPC 83791520148); and Maui Onion Potato Chips in 2-ounce bags (UPC 83791520162). in connection with these chips, according to the FDA. However, Salmonella infections can be serious, particularly for young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms include fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

The Root Cause: Contaminated Milk Powder

The recall is the latest in a series of health alerts tied to dry milk powder from California Dairies. That ingredient has already prompted recalls of frozen pizzas sold at Aldi and Walmart, as well as pork rinds. The widespread use of milk powder in processed foods means the contamination has had a cascading effect across multiple product categories. The FDA has not disclosed how the milk powder became contaminated, but the agency is monitoring the situation. The recall of the chips is a precautionary measure, as the seasoning itself tested negative for Salmonella.

Broader Implications for Food Safety

This incident underscores the vulnerability of the food supply chain when a single ingredient is contaminated. Dry milk powder is a common additive in many processed foods, and its recall can trigger a wave of secondary recalls. The FDA’s decision to issue the recall despite negative test results reflects a zero-tolerance approach to Salmonella in ready-to-eat products. Consumers are advised to return any recalled chips to the place of purchase for a full refund. The FDA continues to investigate the source of the contamination at California Dairies.

What Comes Next

The FDA will likely expand its investigation to determine if other products containing California Dairies milk powder are affected. For now, the agency has not announced any additional recalls. Consumers should remain vigilant and monitor FDA recall notices for updates. The recall serves as a reminder of the importance of ingredient traceability and the potential for contamination to spread through the food system. As the investigation continues, the focus will be on preventing future outbreaks and ensuring the safety of the nation’s food supply.

The bottom line

• Zapp's and Dirty potato chips recalled nationwide due to potential Salmonella from dry milk powder.
• The milk powder, from California Dairies, also triggered recalls of frozen pizzas and pork rinds.
• from the chips, but Salmonella poses serious risks to vulnerable populations.
• Consumers should check UPC codes and return affected products for a refund.
• The recall highlights the ripple effects of ingredient contamination in processed foods.