Attention, consumers: FDA issues urgent recall and risk alert for Tostitos Tortilla Chips

Frito-Lay has announced a recall of a specific batch of Tostitos Cantina Traditional Yellow Corn Tortilla Chips after concerns were raised about a potential undeclared allergen. The recall affects several 13-ounce bags of the product, which may contain traces of an ingredient not listed on the packaging.

The move comes after a manufacturing oversight that could pose a serious risk to consumers with milk allergies. While no illnesses have been reported, Frito-Lay is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of its customers. Here's what you need to know about the recall and how it may impact you.

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Frito-Lay recalls tortilla chips due to allergen risk

Frito-Lay has issued a voluntary recall of specific 13-ounce bags of Tostitos Cantina Traditional Yellow Corn Tortilla Chips after discovering that some may mistakenly contain nacho cheese-flavored chips. This mix-up could expose consumers to an undeclared allergen—milk.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has labeled the recall as a Class I, indicating a high level of concern. This classification is reserved for cases where there’s a reasonable likelihood that consuming or being exposed to the product could lead to serious health issues or even death.

Milk is among the top allergens identified by federal food labeling laws. For people with dairy allergies, unintentional consumption can lead to dangerous reactions. According to Food Allergy Research and Education, approximately 6.2 million Americans have a milk allergy, making it the second most common in the country.

Reactions to milk allergens can range from hives and nausea to life-threatening anaphylaxis, which can involve difficulty breathing, a sharp drop in blood pressure, and even loss of consciousness.

When FDA announced the recall on Tostitos chips?

The recall was announced on March 26 and impacts 1,295 bags of the 13-ounce Tostitos Cantina Traditional Yellow Corn Tortilla Chips, which were sold in 13 states: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.

The recalled chips were available both in physical stores (grocery, drug, and convenience stores) and online, beginning March 7.

Affected bags can be identified by the UPC code 28400 52848, a “Guaranteed Fresh” date of May 20, 2025, and one of the following manufacturing codes (with “XX” representing numbers from 30 to 55):

• 471106504 18 13:XX
• 471106505 85 13:XX
• 471106506 85 13:XX
• 471106507 85 13:XX

As of now, no illnesses or allergic reactions have been reported. Frito-Lay emphasized that this is a precautionary measure, and consumers with milk allergies should avoid eating the product.

Frito-Lay statement about FDA's recalled?

The company made a statement to Newsweek, where they explained:

“A limited number of 13 oz. bags of Tostitos Cantina Traditional Yellow Corn Tortilla Chips may contain nacho cheese-flavored chips, and therefore may include an undeclared milk allergen. Less than 1,300 bags were distributed in stores and online across 13 states.”

The company added that consumers without a milk allergy or sensitivity can safely consume the chips.

Dr. Clinton Mathias, an associate professor at the University of Connecticut, noted:
“Cow’s milk allergy is the most common food allergy in infants and young children in the U.S., affecting between 0.5% and 3% of kids under age 3.” He added that while many children grow out of the allergy, about 1.9% of adults still report allergic reactions to milk.

Symptoms can range from mild skin irritation to severe outcomes like anaphylaxis or gastrointestinal distress.

Consumers who have a milk allergy and possess one of the affected bags are urged to dispose of the product immediately. For further information or assistance, individuals can visit Frito-Lay’s website or contact customer support at 1-800-352-4477 from Monday to Friday, between 9:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. CT.