FDA Escalates Lay’s Potato Chips Recall to Class I Over Undeclared Milk

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Lay’s Classic Potato Chips, a household snack staple, have been escalated to a Class I recall by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) due to undeclared milk, a top food allergen. The recall, initially announced in December 2024, now poses a life-threatening risk to consumers with milk allergies.

The recall began on Dec. 13, 2024, when Frito-Lay, the manufacturer of Lay’s, identified over 6,000 bags of chips sold in Oregon and Washington containing undeclared milk. On Jan. 27, 2025, the FDA elevated the recall to Class I, its most severe classification, indicating a high risk of serious health consequences or death.

“Frito-Lay today issued a recall of a limited number of 13 oz. bags of Lay’s Classic Potato Chips that may contain undeclared milk,” the FDA stated in its Dec. 16 announcement. The affected bags, no longer on store shelves, were distributed to retail stores and e-commerce platforms in Oregon and Washington. They carry a “Guaranteed Fresh” date of Feb. 11, 2025, and manufacturing codes 6462307xx or 6463307xx.

For individuals with milk allergies, consuming the recalled product could trigger severe or life-threatening reactions. The FDA defines Class I recalls as situations where there is a “reasonable probability” of serious adverse health consequences or death.

This recall underscores the critical importance of accurate food labeling, particularly for the estimated 33 million Americans with food allergies. Milk, peanuts, and shellfish are among the most common undeclared allergens in food products, often leading to recalls.

Recalls like this not only impact consumer trust but also cost companies millions in lawsuits and reputational damage. For Lay’s, a brand synonymous with snack foods, regaining consumer confidence will be a significant challenge, especially among families managing food allergies.

The FDA’s swift action highlights the effectiveness of regulatory systems in addressing food safety issues. However, it also raises questions about how such oversights occur in the first place. As supply chains grow more complex, ensuring label accuracy becomes increasingly critical.

This incident reflects a broader trend in the food industry: a growing demand for allergen-free certifications and products tailored to sensitive populations. Consumers are prioritizing transparency and accountability, pushing brands to meet higher safety standards.

For now, the FDA advises consumers with milk allergies to discard any affected products immediately. The recall serves as a stark reminder of the hidden dangers in everyday foods and the importance of vigilance in food safety practices.