A recall has been issued for certain bags of Lay’s Classic Potato Chips in Oregon and Washington due to an undeclared allergen—milk—according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This recall affects a limited number of 13 oz. bags that were distributed to local retailers and e-commerce platforms, with sales dating back to November 3, 2023.
The FDA has warned that individuals with an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk may face serious or life-threatening reactions if they consume the affected product. Fortunately, no allergic reactions have been reported in connection with this recall.
The specific UPC for the recalled bags is 2840031041, and they feature a “Guaranteed Fresh” date of February 11, 2025, along with manufacture codes ending in 6462307xx or 6463307xx. It’s important to note that this recall only pertains to the Lay’s Classic Potato Chips; other varieties and sizes of Lay’s products remain unaffected.
Consumers who have these products at home and are allergic to milk are advised to discard them immediately to avoid any health risks. The FDA has outlined that milk is one of the eight major food allergens, which must be clearly labeled on food packaging to protect consumers.
The Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act requires that food labeling discloses the source names of all major allergens. This can be done either in parentheses or as a “contains” statement next to the ingredient list.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of proper labeling in food production, especially for individuals with food allergies. While the recall is concerning, it highlights the proactive measures taken by both the FDA and Lay’s to ensure consumer safety.
As more companies prioritize transparency and consumer health, there is hope that awareness surrounding food allergens will continue to grow, leading to safer products for everyone.