Summary (tl;dr)

Utz Quality Foods is voluntarily recalling several varieties of its Zapp's and Dirty potato chips across the United States due to a potential salmonella contamination stemming from a dry milk powder used in their seasoning.

Essential Background

The current recall is linked to a dry milk powder ingredient supplied by California Dairies, Inc., which may be contaminated with salmonella. Although the affected seasoning batches initially tested negative for salmonella, Utz initiated the recall out of an abundance of caution. This incident follows a recent similar recall by Ghirardelli Chocolate Company, which also involved powdered beverage mixes containing milk powder from California Dairies with potential salmonella contamination.

The Full Story

On May 4, 2026, Utz Quality Foods LLC, a subsidiary of Utz Brands Inc., announced a voluntary nationwide recall of specific varieties of its Zapp's and Dirty brand potato chips. The decision to recall was made after Utz was notified that a seasoning containing dry milk powder, sourced from California Dairies, Inc., and supplied by a third-party, potentially contained salmonella. The recalled products include various flavors such as Zapp's Bayou Blackened Ranch, Dirty Salt and Vinegar, Zapp's Salt and Vinegar, Dirty Maui Onion, Zapp's Big Cheezy, and Dirty Sour Cream and Onion potato chips, with "Best By" dates ranging from August 3, 2026, to August 31, 2026. Consumers are strongly advised to discard any of these recalled products and can contact Utz customer care for refunds. As of the recall announcement, no illnesses have been reported in connection with the consumption of these products.

Why It Matters

This recall is significant because salmonella can lead to serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Healthy individuals may experience symptoms like fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Given that these potato chips were distributed nationwide, a large number of consumers could be at risk of exposure. The incident underscores the critical importance of stringent quality control and supply chain oversight in the food industry to prevent widespread public health risks.

Geographic Location

• Hanover, Pennsylvania, United States (Utz Quality Foods LLC headquarters, location of recall announcement)
• California, United States (origin of California Dairies Inc., supplier of potentially contaminated milk powder)
• United States (nationwide distribution of recalled potato chips)