A recall of certain bags of Lay’s Classic Potato Chips has been announced in Oregon and Washington due to an undeclared allergen: milk. This precautionary measure comes as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns that individuals with a milk allergy or severe sensitivity could face serious health risks if they consume the affected products.
The FDA stated that 13 oz. bags of Lay’s Classic Potato Chips, which were distributed to retail and e-commerce stores, may contain milk without proper labeling. The products were sold as early as November 3. Fortunately, no allergic reactions related to this recall have been reported so far.
To identify the impacted bags, consumers should look for the UPC number 2840031041. These bags will have a “Guaranteed Fresh” date of February 11, 2025, and one of the following manufacture codes: 6462307xx or 6463307xx. Importantly, no other flavors, sizes, or varieties of Lay’s chips are affected by this recall.
Consumers who are allergic or sensitive to milk are advised to refrain from eating the impacted product and to dispose of it immediately. The FDA classifies milk as one of the eight major food allergens, which also include eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soybeans. Under the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004, it is mandatory for food labels to clearly identify all major food allergens.
This recall serves as an important reminder of the necessity for food manufacturers to ensure that all allergens are correctly declared on their labels, safeguarding consumers from potential health risks associated with food allergies.
Summary: Lay’s Classic Potato Chips are being recalled in Oregon and Washington due to undeclared milk, which poses risks for those with milk allergies. Consumers are urged to check product codes and dispose of any affected bags safely as a precaution. The event highlights the importance of accurate food labeling in protecting public health. It is reassuring that no allergic reactions have been reported thus far, and it is a good time for consumers to be reminded to verify product labels, especially for allergenic ingredients.