The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a voluntary recall of nine popular potato chip products manufactured by Utz Quality Foods, LLC, over potential Salmonella contamination. The recall, posted on May 4, 2026, affects select varieties of Zapp's® and Dirty® brand potato chips sold nationwide at major retailers including Walmart, Publix, Kroger, and other grocery chains.
The recall was triggered after Utz learned that a seasoning blend containing dry milk powder—sourced from California Dairies, Inc. and supplied by a third-party vendor—may contain Salmonella. While the seasoning batches tested negative for the bacteria prior to use, Utz issued the recall out of an abundance of caution following the ingredient supplier's own recall.
To date, no illnesses have been reported in connection with the affected products, the company confirmed.
How the Recall Unfolded: What Consumers Need to Know
On May 4, 2026, Utz Quality Foods, a subsidiary of Utz Brands, Inc., initiated a voluntary recall after being notified that a dry milk powder seasoning ingredient may be contaminated with Salmonella. The seasoning was used in limited production runs of Zapp's and Dirty brand chips. Although the seasoning batches passed initial Salmonella testing, the company decided to err on the side of caution.
Utz is recalling the affected chips based solely on the ingredient supplier's recall, and no other Utz products are impacted. Consumers who have purchased any of the listed products are urged not to eat them and to discard them immediately. For questions or refunds, Utz Customer Care can be reached at 1-877-423-0149, Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET.
Timeline: How the Utz Potato Chip Recall Developed
May 4, 2026 — Utz Quality Foods issues a voluntary recall for limited varieties of Zapp's and Dirty potato chips after being notified that a seasoning containing dry milk powder from California Dairies, Inc. may contain Salmonella. The FDA publishes the recall notice the same day.
May 5, 2026 — Major news outlets including CBS News, USA Today, and the Los Angeles Times report on the recall, amplifying consumer awareness. Retailers such as Walmart, Publix, and Kroger begin posting their own recall announcements and removing affected products from shelves.
May 6, 2026 — The Guardian and TODAY.com publish detailed reports listing all affected UPC codes, best-by dates, and batch codes. The recall expands to consumer awareness campaigns urging shoppers to check their pantries.
May 7, 2026 — The Baltimore Sun reports that recalled products have best-by dates ranging from July 27 through August 31, 2026, and were sold at retail stores across the United States.
Why This Recall Matters: Understanding the Salmonella Risk
Salmonella is a bacteria that causes salmonellosis, one of the most common foodborne illnesses in the United States. According to the CDC, Salmonella causes approximately 1.35 million infections, 26,500 hospitalizations, and 420 deaths in the U.S. each year. Symptoms typically develop between six hours and six days after exposure and include diarrhea, fever, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and headache.
While most healthy individuals recover without treatment within four to seven days, the infection can be far more dangerous for vulnerable populations. Young children, older adults, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for severe complications, including dehydration, bloodstream infections, and life-threatening conditions such as arterial infections, endocarditis, and reactive arthritis.
The dry milk powder used in the seasoning was sourced from California Dairies, Inc., a major dairy cooperative. Though the seasoning tested negative for Salmonella before use, the ingredient supplier's recall triggered Utz's voluntary action. This demonstrates an important food safety protocol: companies are increasingly erring on the side of caution when potential contaminants are identified anywhere in the supply chain.
Where Things Stand Now: Full List of Recalled Products
The recall includes nine specific products. Consumers should check the UPC code, best-by date, and batch code printed on the package. The affected products and their identifying information are as follows:
Zapp's® Brand Bayou Blackened Ranch Potato Chips — 1.5oz (UPC 83791272917), 2.5oz (UPC 83791272924), and 8oz (UPC 83791272931) sizes with best-by dates from July 27 through August 24, 2026.
Zapp's® Brand Salt and Vinegar Potato Chips — 1.5oz 60-count (UPC 83791010144) with best-by dates of August 3 and August 10, 2026.
Zapp's® Brand Big Cheezy Potato Chips — 2.5oz (UPC 83791192208) and 8oz (UPC 83791192246) sizes with a best-by date of August 31, 2026.
Dirty® Brand Salt and Vinegar Potato Chips — 2oz (UPC 83791520148) with best-by dates of August 3 and August 10, 2026.
Dirty® Brand Maui Onion Potato Chips — 2oz (UPC 83791520162) with a best-by date of August 8, 2026.
Dirty® Brand Sour Cream and Onion Potato Chips — 2oz (UPC 83791520094) with a best-by date of August 31, 2026.
No other Utz, Zapp's, or Dirty brand products are included in this recall.
What Happens Next: Protecting Your Health
The FDA advises consumers who have purchased any of the recalled chips to discard them immediately or return them to the place of purchase for a refund. Retailers have been instructed to check their inventories and remove affected products from shelves.
If you or a family member has consumed these chips and is experiencing symptoms of Salmonella infection—especially high fever, bloody diarrhea, or signs of severe dehydration—contact a healthcare provider promptly. Most cases resolve without medical intervention, but vulnerable individuals may require treatment.
This recall also serves as an important reminder to check your pantry regularly and stay informed about food safety alerts. The FDA maintains an up-to-date list of all recalls on its website, and consumers can sign up for email notifications.
The Bottom Line: Key Points to Remember
- Utz voluntarily recalled 9 varieties of Zapp's and Dirty potato chips on May 4, 2026, due to potential Salmonella contamination in a seasoning ingredient.
- No illnesses have been reported, and the seasoning tested negative before use—the recall is purely precautionary.
- Affected products have best-by dates between July 27 and August 31, 2026, and were sold nationwide.
- If you have any of the recalled chips, do not eat them. Discard them or contact Utz at 1-877-423-0149 for a refund.
- Salmonella infections can be serious for young children, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems—seek medical attention if severe symptoms develop.
