Urgent: FDA Upgrades Recall Over Potentially Deadly Allergen

Urgent safety recall sign in bold letters

The FDA has issued its most serious recall classification for Tostitos Cantina Traditional Yellow Corn Tortilla Chips after certain bags were found to contain undeclared allergens that could be deadly for some consumers.

Top Takeaways

Frito-Lay has recalled specific 13-ounce bags of Tostitos Cantina Traditional Yellow Corn Tortilla Chips containing undeclared milk allergens due to nacho cheese chip contamination.
The FDA classified this as a Class I recall – its most serious designation, indicating potential for serious injury or death.
Products were distributed across 13 states with approximately 1,300 bags affected, identifiable by UPC Code 28400 52848 and “Guaranteed Fresh Date” of May 20, 2025.
No allergic reactions have been reported, and the product is safe for consumers without milk allergies.

FDA Issues Highest-Level Recall for Mislabeled Chips

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has designated a Class I recall—its most serious classification—for certain bags of Tostitos Cantina Traditional Yellow Corn Tortilla Chips that may contain undeclared milk allergens. The recall stems from a packaging error where nacho cheese-flavored chips were inadvertently mixed into bags labeled as traditional corn chips. While the issue affects fewer than 1,300 bags, the FDA’s Class I designation indicates the potential for serious health consequences or death for individuals with milk allergies who unknowingly consume the product.

The affected products were distributed throughout 13 states: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. Consumers can identify the recalled items by checking for 13-ounce bags with UPC Code 28400 52848 and a “Guaranteed Fresh Date” of May 20, 2025. These products have been available in stores and through online retailers since March 7, 2025, when Frito-Lay began distributing the affected batch.

The FDA increased the recall of one of Frito-Lay's most popular chips to Class I, meaning "there is a reasonable probability" that eating it "will cause serious adverse health consequences or death." (Getty Images)

DETAILS: https://t.co/FI4KVL4DN9 #KTVONews

— KTVO Television (@KTVOTV) April 9, 2025

Safe for Most, Dangerous for Some

Frito-Lay has emphasized that the recall is primarily a precautionary measure, as no allergic reactions have been reported in connection with the mislabeled chips. The company issued a clear statement addressing consumer concerns about whether they should discard the product:. “The product is safe to consume for people who do not have a dairy allergy or milk sensitivity,” Frito-Lay confirmed in their recall announcement.

For individuals with milk allergies, however, the risk is significant. Milk allergies are particularly common among young children, though many adults also suffer from this condition. Medical experts note that reactions can range from mild to severe, with anaphylaxis being the most dangerous potential outcome. The FDA’s decision to classify this as a Class I recall reflects the serious nature of undeclared allergens, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Limited Scope, Specific Information for Consumers

Frito-Lay has taken steps to limit consumer confusion by clearly stating which products are affected by the recall. “The recall does not apply to any other Tostitos product, flavors, bag sizes, or variety packs,” the company confirmed. This means consumers can continue to purchase and enjoy other Tostitos products without concern. The company has also provided contact information for consumers who may have questions or who need to verify whether their purchase is part of the recalled batch.

The incident highlights the critical importance of accurate food labeling, particularly for products containing common allergens. For most consumers, the recall represents a minimal risk, but for those with milk allergies, the FDA’s Class I designation serves as a vital warning to check packaging carefully. Consumers who have purchased the affected product and have milk allergies should discard it immediately or return it to the place of purchase for a refund. A complete list of affected lot numbers is available on the FDA’s website.