FDA Sets Highest Risk Level For Over 6,000 Bags

The Food and Drug Administration has set the highest risk level for the recall of Lay’s Classic Potato Chips.

Frito-Lay voluntarily recalled 6,344 bags of chips across two states in mid-December after being alerted by a customer that the products may contain undeclared milk.

On Monday, the FDA set the risk level for the recall at class 1, meaning there is a “reasonable probability” that consuming the affected products will “cause serious adverse health consequences or death.”

Cow’s milk is one of the most common food allergens in the United States, and the FDA warned that people with a milk allergy run the risk of life-threatening health consequences if they consume the recalled chips.

The affected potato chips were sold in retail stores and online distributors in Oregon and Washington starting on Nov. 3, 2024. The recall includes products with the following information:

• Lay’s Classic Potato Chips 13-oz.
• UPC: 28400 31041
• “Guaranteed Fresh” date: 2/11/2025
• Manufacturing Codes: 6462307xx or 6463307xx

No allergic reactions have been reported in connection to the recalled chips.

The FDA advised consumers with a milk allergy or sensitivity not to eat the affected potato chips and to throw them away immediately.

Allergic reactions can cause a range of mild to severe symptoms and usually occur within two hours of consuming the allergen. Common symptoms of a mild reaction include:

• A few hives (typically over the neck and face)
• Itching
• Nasal congestion
• Rashes
• Watery, red eyes

An oral antihistamine like Benadryl can treat mild symptoms, and over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream can ease skin reactions. If symptoms do not improve, seek medical attention.

Anaphylaxis, or severe allergic reactions, typically occur seconds or minutes after consuming an allergen and require immediate medical support. Signs of anaphylaxis include:

• Abdominal pain
• Feeling anxious
• Chest discomfort or tightness
• Diarrhea
• Difficulty breathing, coughing, wheezing, or high-pitched breathing sounds
• Difficulty swallowing
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Hives, itchiness, redness of the skin
• Nasal congestion
• Nausea or vomiting
• Palpitations
• Slurred speech
• Swelling of the face, eyes, or tongue
• Unconsciousness

If someone with an allergy shows signs of anaphylaxis, call 911 immediately. Take or administer emergency allergy medicine, such as an epinephrine injection like an EpiPen, while you wait for medical support.