FDA Doubles Recall Severity for Popular Frito-Lay Chips

CINCINNATI, Ohio — The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has upgraded the recall classification of Frito-Lay‘s Tostitos Cantina-style corn chips to Class I, a designation reserved for products that pose a significant risk to health. The announcement, made on April 9, 2025, comes after an earlier recall issued on March 26.

Frito-Lay initially recalled a limited number of 13-ounce bags of Tostitos Cantina Traditional Yellow Corn Tortilla Chips after reports indicated that some packages contained nacho cheese tortilla chips. The nacho cheese chips include undeclared milk, posing a serious risk for those with milk allergies.

In its latest statement, the FDA indicated that there is a “reasonable probability” that consuming these chips could lead to severe health consequences or even death. Consumers are urged not to eat the affected products and to return them to the place of purchase.

According to Frito-Lay, the recalled chips were sold in 13 states: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. The recalled bags can be identified by a Guaranteed Fresh date of May 20, 2025, along with specific manufacturing codes that begin with 47110650418, 47110650585, 47110650685, or 47110650785, followed by the numbers 30 to 50.

Frito-Lay’s response to the situation included emphasis on their commitment to food safety and consumer well-being. “We take matters of food safety very seriously,” the company stated. “We encourage any consumer with the recalled products to discard them immediately.”

The company reassured that the recalled products were not distributed in New York. However, consumers across the affected states are advised to closely check their pantry for these specific chip bags.

This recall highlights an ongoing challenge in the snack food industry, where cross-contamination can occur in manufacturing processes. Frito-Lay is known for producing a wide range of beloved snack foods, and recalls can greatly affect consumer trust.

In a climate where allergies and dietary restrictions are increasingly common, companies are under pressure to ensure accurate labeling and safe manufacturing practices. The FDA’s classification of the recall underscores the gravity of the situation, urging consumers to remain vigilant about their snack choices.