On December 16, Frito-Lay announced a recall of certain 13 oz. bags of Lay’s Classic Potato Chips due to the presence of undeclared milk, which poses a serious health risk for individuals with milk allergies or sensitivities. The recall followed a consumer alert that prompted the company to investigate and take immediate action.
Details of the Recall
The affected products were distributed to select retail and e-commerce locations in Oregon and Washington. Consumers may have purchased these chips as early as November 3, 2024. To identify the impacted bags, customers should look for the following details:
- Guaranteed Fresh Date: February 11, 2025
- UPC Code: 28400 31041
- Manufacturing Codes: 6462307xx or 6463307xx
Frito-Lay advises consumers with milk allergies to discard these chips immediately to avoid potential allergic reactions. So far, no allergic incidents have been reported, but the company urges vigilance to ensure safety.
A Frito-Lay representative confirmed the recall in a statement to Newsweek, emphasizing the company’s dedication to transparency and consumer protection. The representative also clarified that no other Lay’s products — including different flavors, sizes, or variety packs — are impacted by the recall.
For additional support, affected customers can contact Frito-Lay’s Consumer Relations team at 1-800-352-4477 during standard business hours.
FDA Amplifies Recall Message
Two days after Frito-Lay’s announcement, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reinforced the message by republishing the details on their official website, aiming to enhance public awareness and ensure consumer safety.
Understanding Milk Allergies
According to the Mayo Clinic, milk allergies are one of the most common food allergies in children, caused by an abnormal immune response to milk proteins. While cow’s milk is the usual trigger, milk from other mammals such as goats or sheep can also cause allergic reactions.
The immune system mistakenly identifies milk proteins like casein (found in the curd) and whey (in the liquid portion) as harmful. This triggers the release of histamines and other chemicals, resulting in symptoms that range from mild to severe.
Symptoms of a Milk Allergy
Allergic reactions can manifest quickly, within minutes of exposure, or develop over several hours. Immediate symptoms include:
- Hives
- Swelling of the lips or throat
- Wheezing or coughing
- Vomiting
- Tingling or itching around the mouth
Delayed reactions may include digestive issues such as loose stools, abdominal cramps, or colic in infants, as well as respiratory symptoms like a runny nose or watery eyes.
In severe cases, an epinephrine injection and emergency medical attention are required to manage life-threatening reactions.
