Federal authorities have escalated the recall of Lay’s Classic Potato Chips to the highest risk level due to a possible presence of undeclared milk ingredients.

Last month, Frito-Lay announced a recall involving over 6,300 bags of their 13-ounce chips, which might contain hidden milk, potentially leading to serious or even life-threatening allergic reactions. On Monday, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration designated the recall as “Class I,” which signifies the most critical risk level.

According to the FDA, “Class I” recalls occur when there is a “reasonable probability that using or being exposed to a violative product could result in serious adverse health effects or even death.”

The warning specifies that the affected batch of chips was distributed in Washington and Oregon, with availability starting on Nov. 3, 2024.

Frito-Lay representatives have not yet responded to YSL News’s inquiry for comments.

When did the recall take place?

Frito-Lay initiated a limited recall on December 16, affecting 6,344 bags of Lay’s Classic Potato Chips, each weighing 13 ounces.

The FDA notice explained that the chips “may contain undeclared milk, following a notification from a consumer.”

“If you are allergic or highly sensitive to milk, consuming this product could lead to severe or life-threatening allergic reactions,” the warning stated.

Which states received the Lay’s chips?

The recall indicates that the bags were distributed to “specific retail stores and online vendors.”

The recalled chips are distributed exclusively in:

• Oregon
• Washington

What should you do if you have the recalled chips?

Individuals who may have a milk allergy or sensitivity should avoid consuming the affected product, according to the alert.

Frito-Lay advises anyone with the recalled chips to dispose of them immediately.

For any inquiries regarding this recall, you can contact Frito-Lay Consumer Relations at 1-800-352-4477, available Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CT.

What is a milk allergy?

A milk allergy happens when someone consumes a product containing milk, and the only way to manage it is by avoiding such products, as stated by the Mayo Clinic.

Milk allergies are distinct from milk intolerance, the Mayo Clinic explains.

“A genuine milk allergy is not the same as milk protein intolerance or lactose intolerance,” the Mayo Clinic notes. “While milk allergy involves the immune system, intolerance does not and requires different treatment from a true milk allergy.”

Symptoms of a milk allergy can include:

• Hives
• Wheezing
• Itching or tingling around the lips or mouth
• Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
• Coughing or difficulty breathing
• Vomiting

A milk allergy has the potential to lead to anaphylaxis, a severe and life-threatening reaction that can restrict a person’s ability to breathe, according to the Mayo Clinic.