Utz Quality Foods has initiated a voluntary recall of nine chip varieties under the Zapp's and Dirty brands due to potential salmonella contamination, according to a statement from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The snack producer, now part of Utz Brands, discovered that the seasoning used in their products contains dry milk powder that may be tainted with the bacteria. The milk powder was supplied by California Dairies, Inc., the largest dairy cooperative in the state, through a third-party vendor.
Despite the specific batches of seasoning testing negative for salmonella before use, Utz has opted for a precautionary recall. The affected products include limited varieties of Zapp's and Dirty chips:
- Zapp's Bayou Blackened Ranch in 1.5, 2.5, and eight-ounce packages
- Zapp's Salt and Vinegar in 1.5-ounce packages
- Zapp's Big Cheezy in 2.5 and eight-ounce packages
- Dirty Salt and Vinegar in two-ounce packages
- Dirty Maui Onion in two-ounce packages
- Dirty Sour Cream and Onion in two-ounce packages
These products are primarily sold in major supermarket chains like Walmart, Target, Publix, and Kroger, as well as in restaurants nationwide, with expiration dates extending to August 2026.
Consumer and Retailer Advisories
The FDA advises customers to avoid consuming these snacks and to dispose of them immediately. Retailers are urged to check their inventory and shelves to ensure none of these products remain available for purchase.
Utz has not received reports of illnesses associated with the recalled products. The recall follows an ingredient supplier's request. This incident is part of a broader series of alerts triggered by the same contaminated dry milk powder from California Dairies, Inc. On April 28, Ghirardelli Chocolate Company recalled powdered drink mixes for the same reason.
On May 1, the USDA issued public health alerts for frozen pizzas under Great Value (Walmart), Mama Cozzi's (Aldi), and Culinary Circle brands, as well as Pork King Good brand pork rinds. Recently, John B. Sanfilippo & Son, Inc. also recalled snack mix products for the same reason. Authorities warn that more affected products may be identified.
Historical Context and Health Impacts
Such recalls are not rare in the U.S. market. In December 2025, over a million bags of shredded cheese were recalled due to possible contamination, and in the same year, Walmart withdrew a brand of frozen shrimp in Florida. In May 2025, cucumbers in Florida led to hospitalizations for salmonella, and in 2018, Kellogg's recalled several cereal types due to potential bacterial cases.
Salmonella infection can lead to fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, with symptoms typically appearing six to 72 hours after consumption. High-risk groups include young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are 1.35 million annual cases of salmonellosis in the United States, resulting in 26,500 hospitalizations and 420 deaths each year.
Consumers seeking further information about the recall can contact Utz's customer service at 1-877-423-0149. The company specifies that "this recall is limited exclusively to the listed products and no other product manufactured by Utz Quality Foods is included."
Understanding the Recall and Its Implications
What prompted the recall of Zapp's and Dirty chips?
The recall was initiated due to potential salmonella contamination in the seasoning's dry milk powder, supplied by California Dairies, Inc.
Which stores sold the affected chip products?
The recalled chips were sold in major supermarket chains like Walmart, Target, Publix, and Kroger, as well as across various restaurants nationwide.
How does salmonella affect human health?
Salmonella infection can cause symptoms such as fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, often appearing between six and 72 hours after consumption.