Tostitos Tortilla Chips Recall: FDA Issues High-Risk Alert Over Undeclared Milk Allergen

A recent recall of Tostitos Cantina Traditional Yellow Corn Tortilla Chips has prompted urgent warnings from both Frito-Lay and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The recall, now labeled a Class I risk—the FDA’s most severe classification—highlights potential dangers for consumers with milk allergies. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe.


Why the Recall Happened

Frito-Lay announced a voluntary recall of approximately 1,300 bags of its 13-ounce Tostitos Cantina Traditional Yellow Corn Tortilla Chips on March 26, 2024. The action was taken after the company discovered some packages might accidentally contain nacho cheese-flavored chips. These flavored chips contain milk, an ingredient not listed on the original product’s label.

Milk is classified as a major food allergen under U.S. law, requiring clear labeling to protect consumers. For those with milk allergies, even trace amounts can trigger severe reactions. The FDA’s Class I designation means there’s a “reasonable probability” the product could cause serious harm or death if consumed by allergic individuals.


States Affected by the Recall

The recalled chips were distributed to 13 states:

• Alabama
• Florida
• Georgia
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Kentucky
• Mississippi
• North Carolina
• Ohio
• South Carolina
• Tennessee
• Virginia

West Virginia

The products were sold in grocery stores, convenience shops, drugstores, and online retailers starting March 7, 2024.


How to Identify Recalled Products

Consumers should check their 13-ounce Tostitos Cantina Traditional Yellow Corn Tortilla Chip bags for the following details:

• UPC Code: 28400 52848
• Guaranteed Fresh” Date: May 20, 2025
• Manufacturing Codes: Look for one of these codes, where “XX”
• represents numbers 30–55:
• 471106504 18 13:XX
• 471106505 85 13:XX
• 471106506 85 13:XX
• 471106507 85 13:XX
  
  If your bag matches these details, do not consume it.
  
  
  Why Milk Allergies Are a Serious Concern
  
  Milk allergies affect an estimated 6.2 million Americans, making it the second most common food allergy in the country. While many children outgrow it, roughly 1.9% of adults remain allergic. Clinton Mathias, a nutritional sciences expert at the University of Connecticut, explains that reactions can range from mild to life-threatening:
• Mild Symptoms: Hives, itching, stomach pain, vomiting, or diarrhea.
• Severe Reactions: Swelling of the throat, difficulty breathing, sudden blood pressure drops, or anaphylaxis—a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment with epinephrine.
  
  “Because reactions are unpredictable, avoiding milk is critical for allergic individuals,” says Mathias.
  
  
  What Consumers Should Do
  
  1.Check Your Pantry: If you bought Tostitos Cantina chips recently, verify the UPC, date, and manufacturing code.
  2.Discard Affected Bags: Those with milk allergies should throw the product away immediately.
  3.Contact Frito-Lay: Reach out via their [website](https://www.fritolay.com/contact-us) or call 1-800-352-4477 (9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. CT, weekdays) for refunds or questions.
  
  Frito-Lay has clarified that no illnesses or allergic reactions have been reported so far. The recall is purely precautionary.
  
  
  Frito-Lay’s Response
  
  In a statement, Frito-Lay emphasized its commitment to safety: “We’re recalling a limited number of bags to prevent potential risks to consumers with milk allergies. Unless you’re allergic to dairy, this product is safe to eat.” The company also noted that fewer than 1,300 bags were sold, minimizing widespread exposure.
  
  
  Understanding FDA’s Class I Recall
  
  A Class I recall is reserved for situations where a product poses the highest risk of severe injury or death. Past examples include foods contaminated with listeria or undeclared nuts. In this case, the unlabeled milk allergen meets this threshold due to the danger it poses to sensitive individuals.
  
  
  The Bigger Picture: Food Allergies and Labeling Laws
  
  Federal regulations require companies to clearly list major allergens like milk, eggs, peanuts, and shellfish on packaging. However, cross-contamination during manufacturing can still occur. This incident underscores the importance of:
• Reading Labels Carefully: Even on products you regularly buy.
• Staying Informed: Signing up for FDA recall alerts or checking their [website](https://www.fda.gov/recalls).
  
  
  Final Thoughts
  
  While the recalled Tostitos chips pose no risk to most people, those with milk allergies must take this warning seriously. Food recalls are a vital tool for preventing harm, and this incident serves as a reminder to stay vigilant about food safety.
  
  If you’ve purchased the affected product, err on the side of caution. When in doubt, throw it out—or contact Frito-Lay for guidance. Your health and safety are worth it.