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May 4, 2026 – Utz Quality Foods, LLC recalled limited varieties of Zapp’s and Dirty brand potato chips sold nationwide through retail stores 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].
Upstream Ingredient Contamination
The affected seasoning batches tested negative for Salmonella before Utz used them in chip production. California Dairies later identified potential contamination in the dry milk powder supplied to the third-party seasoning manufacturer.
Nine Products Recalled
Recalled items include Zapp’s Bayou Blackened Ranch (1.5oz, 2.5oz, 8oz), Zapp’s Salt and Vinegar (1.5oz 60ct), Zapp’s Big Cheezy (2.5oz, 8oz), and Dirty brand Salt and Vinegar (2oz), Maui Onion (2oz), and Sour Cream and Onion (2oz). Best By dates range from July 27, 2026 through August 31, 2026.
Batch Codes Required
Not all chips with these flavors are recalled—only specific batch codes listed on the packaging. Consumers must check both the Best By date and batch code to determine if their chips are affected.
Salmonella Health Risks
Salmonella causes fever, diarrhea (sometimes bloody), nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain typically 12 to 72 hours after consumption. Severe cases require hospitalization, particularly for young children, elderly adults, and immunocompromised individuals.
Bloodstream Infections
In rare cases, Salmonella enters the bloodstream causing arterial infections, infected aneurysms, endocarditis, and arthritis. These complications can be fatal without prompt medical treatment.
No Illnesses Reported
Utz received no illness complaints related to these products as of the recall date. The recall is preventive based on the ingredient supplier’s notification.
Nationwide Distribution
The recalled chips sold at retail stores throughout the United States. Wide distribution means affected products reached consumers across the entire country.
UPC Codes Listed
Each recalled product has a specific UPC code printed on the package. Consumers should check the detailed recall table for their product’s exact UPC, Best By date, and batch code combination.
Third-Party Supplier Chain
California Dairies supplied dry milk powder to a third-party seasoning manufacturer, who then supplied seasoned ingredients to Utz. Complex supply chains make tracking contamination sources difficult once ingredients move through multiple companies.
Testing Limitations
The seasoning batches tested negative before Utz used them in production. Subsequent testing by California Dairies revealed potential contamination, showing that single-point testing doesn’t guarantee ingredient safety.
Discard or Return
Consumers should not eat the recalled chips and should discard them immediately. For refunds, contact Utz Customer Care at 1-877-423-0149 Monday through Friday 9am to 6pm Eastern Time.
Retailer Responsibilities
Retailers must check inventories and remove recalled products from shelves. Selling recalled chips after notification creates liability for stores that fail to comply.
Zapp’s Brand Profile
Zapp’s produces Louisiana-style kettle chips known for bold flavors like Voodoo, Cajun Crawtator, and Spicy Cajun Crawtator. The brand emphasizes regional authenticity and unique seasoning blends.
Dirty Brand Chips
Dirty brand markets all-natural kettle chips made with premium ingredients. The brand targets health-conscious consumers seeking minimally processed snack options.
Utz Brands Portfolio
Utz Quality Foods, a subsidiary of Utz Brands, Inc., manufactures diverse savory snacks beyond just Zapp’s and Dirty brands. This recall affects only the specific products listed, not the entire Utz portfolio.
Contact an Attorney
If you or a family member became ill with Salmonella after eating recalled Zapp’s or Dirty potato chips, contact a product liability attorney. Preserve product packaging with UPC codes and batch numbers, 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