Utz Recalls Nine Chip Varieties Over Salmonella‑Linked Milk Powder

*TL;DR: Utz is recalling nine Zapp’s and Dirty chip varieties in the United States because the dry milk powder used in their seasoning may contain salmonella.

Context Utz announced a voluntary recall of two potato‑chip brands after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration identified a potential salmonella contamination route. The bacteria can cause fever, stomach pain, diarrhea and, in vulnerable groups, severe illness.

Key Facts - The recall covers nine specific flavors, including Zapp’s Bayou Blackened Ranch (1.5 oz, 2.5 oz, 8 oz), Zapp’s Salt and Vinegar (1.5 oz), Zapp’s Big Cheezy (2.5 oz, 8 oz), Dirty Salt and Vinegar (2 oz), Dirty Maui Onion (2 oz) and Dirty Sour Cream and Onion (2 oz). - All affected chips use a seasoning blend that contains dry milk powder sourced from California Dairies Inc. The milk powder batch tested negative for salmonella before use, but the FDA flagged it as a possible source of contamination. - Utz’s recall is limited to the listed chip varieties; no other Utz products are affected. - The same milk‑powder issue has prompted recalls by other food companies, such as Ghirardelli’s powdered drink mixes and John B. Sanfilippo & Son’s snack mixes.

What It Means Consumers should discard any of the nine recalled chip packages immediately, even if the bags appear intact. The risk stems from a bacterial contaminant that can survive in dry powders and transfer to the final product during seasoning. While most salmonella infections are mild, the disease can be severe for children, the elderly and immunocompromised individuals.

Health officials advise washing hands after handling recalled packages and monitoring for symptoms such as fever, abdominal cramps or diarrhea for up to a week after exposure. If symptoms develop, seek medical attention promptly.

Looking Ahead Watch for updates from the FDA on additional recalls linked to the same milk‑powder batch and for any guidance on testing or reformulating seasoning ingredients to prevent future contamination.