FDA Issues Highest Risk Alert for Frito Lay Potato Chips Recall
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a Class 1 recall—the highest risk level—for Lay’s Classic Potato Chips in certain states due to the potential presence of undeclared milk. This recall has raised serious health concerns, especially for individuals with milk allergies or severe sensitivities. The affected Frito Lay Potato Chips were distributed in Oregon and Washington, and consumers are urged to check their bags to ensure they do not consume the recalled product.
Frito Lay Potato Chips: Why Was the Recall Issued?
Frito-Lay, a subsidiary of PepsiCo, voluntarily recalled a limited number of its 13-ounce Lay’s Classic Potato Chips after discovering that some bags may contain undeclared milk. The FDA initially announced the recall in December, warning that individuals with allergies or severe sensitivities to milk could suffer serious or even life-threatening reactions if they consumed the product. On January 29, the FDA escalated its classification to a Class 1 recall, signaling that consumption of the affected Frito Lay Potato Chips poses a significant risk of “serious adverse health consequences or death.”

What is a Class 1 Recall?
A Class 1 recall is the most serious type of recall issued by the FDA. This classification is reserved for products that could cause severe health risks or fatalities. Since milk is one of the FDA’s eight “major food allergens,” consuming it unknowingly can lead to symptoms such as:
- Hives
- Stomach cramps
- Dizziness
- Swollen vocal cords
- Difficulty breathing
- Loss of consciousness
Individuals with severe milk allergies are at the highest risk, as an allergic reaction can escalate into anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention.
Details of the Recalled Frito Lay Potato Chips
Consumers in Oregon and Washington who purchased Lay’s Classic Potato Chips should check their packaging for the following details:
- Guaranteed Fresh Date: February 11, 2025
- Manufacturing Codes: 6462307xx or 6463307xx
If you have a bag that matches these details, the FDA strongly advises that you discard it immediately, especially if anyone in your household has a milk allergy.
How Did Frito-Lay Discover the Issue?
Frito-Lay became aware of the undeclared milk issue after being contacted by a concerned customer. Following an internal investigation, the company confirmed that some batches of its Lay’s Classic Potato Chips may have been contaminated with milk. The company swiftly issued a voluntary recall and notified the FDA to prevent further risks to consumers.
Where Were the Affected Chips Sold?
The recalled Frito Lay Potato Chips were distributed to:
- Retail stores in Oregon and Washington
- E-commerce platforms that service these areas
This means that individuals who purchased their Lay’s Classic Potato Chips online from vendors serving these states may also be affected. Consumers are encouraged to review their purchases carefully and discard any product that matches the recall criteria.

What Should Consumers Do?
If you have purchased Lay’s Classic Potato Chips in Oregon or Washington recently, take the following steps:
- Check Your Bag: Look for the “Guaranteed Fresh” date and manufacturing codes mentioned above.
- Do Not Consume the Chips: Even if no one in your household has a milk allergy, it is best to discard the recalled product to prevent any accidental exposure.
- Dispose of the Chips Properly: Ensure they are thrown away in a way that prevents others from consuming them.
- Contact Frito-Lay for Refunds or Questions: Consumers who purchased the recalled product may contact Frito-Lay’s customer service for information about refunds or replacements.
FDA’s Response and Public Safety Measures
The FDA continues to monitor the recall and is working closely with Frito-Lay to ensure that affected products are removed from shelves. The agency has also issued public warnings and urged retailers to halt sales of the recalled chips.
The FDA advises consumers with severe allergies to remain vigilant about food packaging and ingredient lists to avoid potential allergic reactions. This incident also underscores the importance of food manufacturers ensuring proper labeling to protect public health.
Final Thoughts on the Frito Lay Potato Chips Recall
The recall of Lay’s Classic Potato Chips serves as a stark reminder of the importance of accurate food labeling and the potential dangers of undeclared allergens. With the FDA elevating this recall to a Class 1 risk, consumers should take immediate precautions to avoid health hazards associated with these chips.
For those affected, checking product labels and being aware of manufacturing codes can help prevent accidental allergic reactions. If you have purchased Lay’s Classic Potato Chips in Oregon or Washington, take action now to ensure your safety and that of your loved ones.
Stay informed about food recalls and always verify ingredient labels, especially if you or a family member has a known allergy. The swift response from both Frito-Lay and the FDA highlights the importance of consumer safety, but it is ultimately up to individuals to remain cautious and act responsibly when food recalls are issued.