The latest in a slew of recent food recalls — like vegetable medleys potentially tainted with E. coli — concerns Lay’s Classic Potato Chips. Frito-Lay issued a recall of some lots 13-ounce bags of the popular snack on December 16, with grocery retailer Kroger following suit shortly thereafter. The products in question were distributed to retailers in Oregon and Washington (though these include online retailers that may have sold products out of state). The products in question are being pulled from the shelves due to the chips being contaminated with an undeclared milk product that could affect the health of millions of Americans.
The chips have been available for purchase since November 3 and have a “Guaranteed Fresh” date (different from an expiration date or other dates on the package) of February 11, 2025. They also carry a manufacturing code of 6462307xx or 6463307xx and a UPC code of 28400-31041. Anyone in possession of these products who also has a milk allergy should throw the chips away to avoid any health complications. So far, no other retailers have indicated they had the chips on hand, and no further recalls have been issued. Frito-Lay also indicated that no other Frito-Lay products have been affected.
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Milk Allergy Versus Milk Intolerance
Glass of milk in front of person holding stomach – Pormezz/Shutterstock
An estimated 6.2 million people in the United States are allergic to milk. For those folks, consuming products containing dairy can be potentially life-threatening and may lead to anaphylaxis, an allergic reaction that causes airways to constrict and prevents airflow into the lungs. Milk allergies can also cause hives, coughing, wheezing, and swelling in the lips, tongue, and throat. Children are most likely to have a milk allergy, with approximately 80% outgrowing the affliction by adulthood.
However, an intolerance to milk doesn’t involve the immune system like an allergy does. Folks who are lactose intolerant suffer less severe, though oftentimes uncomfortable, digestive symptoms. These typically include gas, diarrhea, and bloating. To avoid any discomfort, those with a milk intolerance are also advised to throw the tainted chips out. Those with questions about the recall are encouraged to call Frito-Lay Customer Relations at 1-800-352-4477 Monday through Friday, from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm CST.
Read the original article on Foodie.