Latest Updates
May 4, 2026 – Utz Quality Foods, LLC recalled limited varieties of Dirty brand potato chips sold nationwide after a seasoning containing dry milk powder sourced from California Dairies, Inc. tested positive for potential Salmonella contamination. No illnesses have been reported to date [1].
Three Dirty Products Recalled
The recall affects specific batch codes of three Dirty brand flavors:
- 2oz Dirty Salt and Vinegar Potato Chips (Best By dates: August 3, 10, 2026)
- 2oz Dirty Maui Onion Potato Chips (Best By date: August 8, 2026)
- 2oz Dirty Sour Cream and Onion Potato Chips (Best By date: August 31, 2026)
Batch Code Verification Required
Not all Dirty chips are recalled—only specific batch codes listed in the recall notice. Consumers must check both the Best By date and the batch code printed on the package to determine if their chips are affected.
The Salmonella Risk
Salmonella causes fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain typically within 12 to 72 hours after consumption. Young children, elderly adults, frail individuals, and those with weakened immune systems face the highest risk of serious infection.
Severe Complications
In rare cases, Salmonella infection spreads to the bloodstream causing arterial infections, infected aneurysms, endocarditis, and arthritis. These complications can be fatal without prompt medical intervention.
Preventive Recall
Utz received no illness complaints related to these Dirty brand chips as of the recall announcement. The company issued the recall proactively after learning about potential contamination from the ingredient supplier.
Ingredient Testing Discrepancy
The seasoning batches tested negative for Salmonella before Utz used them in chip production. Later testing by California Dairies revealed potential contamination in the dry milk powder, prompting the supplier recall.
Third-Party Supply Chain
California Dairies supplied contaminated dry milk powder to a third-party seasoning manufacturer, who then supplied the finished seasoning to Utz. This multi-step supply chain delayed discovery of the contamination issue.
Dirty Brand Philosophy
Dirty brand markets itself as producing all-natural kettle-cooked potato chips made with premium, simple ingredients. The brand targets health-conscious consumers seeking minimally processed snack alternatives.
All-Natural Claims
Dirty chips are marketed as containing no artificial ingredients, preservatives, or trans fats. The Salmonella contamination came from a natural ingredient—dry milk powder—used in the seasoning blends.
Kettle-Cooked Process
Dirty chips use a kettle-cooking process that creates thicker, crunchier chips compared to standard potato chips. This cooking method doesn’t kill Salmonella bacteria present in dry seasoning ingredients applied after cooking.
Zapp’s Brand Also Affected
The same recall includes six varieties of Zapp’s brand potato chips that used the contaminated seasoning. Both Dirty and Zapp’s are subsidiaries of Utz Quality Foods, LLC.
Nationwide Retail Distribution
The recalled Dirty chips sold at retail stores throughout the United States. Wide distribution means affected products reached consumers in all states.
Disposal Instructions
Consumers who have recalled Dirty chips should not eat them and should discard them immediately. Do not donate recalled products to food banks or give them to others.
Refund Process
For refunds or questions, consumers can contact Utz Customer Care at 1-877-423-0149 Monday through Friday from 9am to 6pm Eastern Time. Have the UPC code, Best By date, and batch code available when calling.
Retailer Obligations
Retailers must check their inventories and remove recalled products from shelves immediately. Continuing to sell recalled chips after notification creates legal liability for stores.
UPC Codes for Verification
Each recalled Dirty product has a specific UPC code: Salt and Vinegar (83791520148), Maui Onion (83791520162), and Sour Cream and Onion (83791520094). Consumers should verify both UPC and batch codes match the recall list.
FDA Coordination
Utz is conducting this voluntary recall with the knowledge of the United States Food and Drug Administration. The FDA monitors the recall to ensure proper consumer notification and product removal.
Contact an Attorney
If you became ill with Salmonella after eating Dirty potato chips, contact a product liability attorney. Preserve product packaging, save medical records, and keep purchase receipts.
References
1. https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/utz-quality-foods-llc-issues-voluntary-recall-certain-limited-varieties-zapps-and-dirty-potato-chips