Utz Quality Foods LLC has announced a voluntary recall of certain varieties of Zapp’s and Dirty potato chips across the United States due to possible contamination linked to Salmonella.
The company, a subsidiary of Utz Brands Inc., said the recall was initiated after it was informed that a seasoning ingredient supplied by a third-party vendor may contain Salmonella. The seasoning included dry milk powder sourced from California Dairies Inc..
The announcement was published by the (USFDA) on Monday (May 4, 2026).
Why the products are recalled
According to Utz, the seasoning batches involved had tested negative for Salmonella before being used in production. However, the company said it decided to proceed with the recall “out of an abundance of caution” following the ingredient supplier’s notification.
The recall affects only specific batches and sizes of selected potato chip products. No other Utz-made products are included in the recall.
The company stressed that the action is preventive and that no illnesses have been reported so far in connection with the affected products.
Health risks linked to salmonella
Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause serious infections, particularly in young children, elderly individuals and people with weakened immune systems.
Common symptoms of Salmonella infection include:
-Fever
-Diarrhea, sometimes bloody
-Nausea
-Vomiting
-Abdominal pain
In severe cases, the infection can spread into the bloodstream and lead to more dangerous conditions such as arterial infections, endocarditis or arthritis.
Healthy individuals typically recover without treatment, but vulnerable groups may face more serious complications.
Products included in the recall
The recalled products include several flavours and package sizes of Zapp’s and Dirty potato chips sold nationwide at retail stores.
Affected products include:
Zapp’s Bayou Blackened Ranch Potato Chips
Zapp’s Salt and Vinegar Potato Chips
Zapp’s Big Cheezy Potato Chips
Dirty Salt and Vinegar Potato Chips
Dirty Maui Onion Potato Chips
Dirty Sour Cream and Onion Potato Chips
The products carry various “Best By” dates ranging from July through August 2026 and specific batch codes listed in the company notice.
Consumers are advised to check packaging details carefully to determine whether their products are part of the recall.
Consumer instructions and refund information
Utz has urged consumers not to eat the recalled products and to discard them immediately.
Customers seeking refunds or additional information can contact the company’s customer care service by phone at 1-877-423-0149 during weekday business hours.
Retailers have also been instructed to inspect inventories and remove affected products from store shelves to prevent further sales.
Food recalls linked to potential Salmonella contamination are treated seriously because the bacteria can spread quickly through contaminated ingredients and processed foods.
The incident highlights the importance of supply chain monitoring and quality testing in the food manufacturing industry, especially when ingredients are sourced from multiple suppliers.
Utz said it will continue monitoring the situation and working with suppliers and regulators as the investigation continues.
What is product recall
A product recall is an action taken to remove or correct products that may be unsafe, defective or violate federal safety standards. Recalls can involve food, medicines, medical devices, cosmetics or consumer products. Most recalls are initiated voluntarily by manufacturers after discovering contamination, mislabeling, defects or health risks, while the FDA oversees the process and informs the public. Recalls are classified by risk level, with Class I being the most serious due to potential severe illness or death.
