Summary (tl;dr)

Utz Quality Foods has issued a nationwide voluntary recall of select Zapp's and Dirty potato chips due to potential Salmonella contamination stemming from a dry milk powder ingredient. Although no illnesses have been reported, the recall is a precautionary measure following an ingredient supplier's own recall.

Essential Background

Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause serious and potentially fatal infections, particularly in young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Food product recalls are a critical safety measure initiated when there's a risk of contamination to protect public health. Before this current event, Utz was notified by a third-party supplier that a seasoning containing dry milk powder, sourced from California Dairies, Inc., might contain Salmonella.

The Full Story

Utz Quality Foods, LLC, a subsidiary of Utz Brands, Inc., announced on May 4, 2026, a voluntary recall of limited varieties of its Zapp's and Dirty brand potato chips. The recall was triggered by the discovery that a dry milk powder used in the seasoning of these chips, supplied by California Dairies, Inc., had the potential for Salmonella contamination. While the affected seasoning batches had previously tested negative for Salmonella, Utz decided to proceed with the recall out of abundant caution following their ingredient supplier's own recall. The recalled products, available nationwide, have "Best By" dates between August 3, 2026, and August 31, 2026. Consumers are advised not to consume these chips and to discard them.

Why It Matters

This recall is significant because Salmonella contamination can lead to serious health issues, including fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, and can be fatal in vulnerable populations. The widespread distribution of these popular potato chip brands means that many consumers could be affected, highlighting the importance of stringent food safety protocols throughout the supply chain. Although no illnesses have been reported to Utz, the proactive recall underscores a commitment to consumer safety and transparency. This event also emphasizes the ripple effect of ingredient recalls, where a problem at one supplier can impact numerous finished products from different manufacturers.

Geographic Location

• Hanover, York County, Pennsylvania, United States (Utz Quality Foods, LLC issuing voluntary recall)
• California, United States (location of California Dairies, Inc., the source of the potentially contaminated dry milk powder ingredient)