Lay's Classic Potato Chips have been recalled in Oregon and Washington after undeclared milk, a major allergen, was found in over 6,000 bags. While FDA implemented this recall last month on December 13, it was classified as 'highest risk level' on January 27.



What is a Class 1 recall?

FDA has issued its most severe risk warning - Class 1 recall which means exposure or consumption of the chips may cause "serious adverse health consequences or death."



There are two categories of risk classification by FDA. Class II is assigned when a product might pose a minor risk or create a short-term health problem.



Class III recall is issued where a product is unlikely to cause health problems but still breaches FDA labelling or manufacturing requirements.

What was the reason of the recall and why was it classified as highest-level risk?



The reason the FDA classified this risk as 'highest level' is due to the presence of undeclared milk.



Milk is considered one of FDA's eight major food allergens as it could lead to hives, cramps, dizziness, swollen vocal cords, and even unconsciousness among those who are allergic to it.



Milk allergy is among common food allergies in children and the symptoms could range from mild to severe. Wheezing , vomiting, hives and digestive problems are among the milder symptoms, the allergy can also cause anaphylaxis, which is a severe and life-threatening issue leading to blockage of airways. Milk is the third most common food allergen, after peanuts and tree nuts, which can cause anaphylaxis.




When did the recall take place?

Lay's had recalled over 6,000 of its 13 oz. bag of classic chips voluntarily in December across Washington and Oregon retail and e-commerce outlets. The company found out about the undeclared allergen after a customer contacted them.



Frito Lay's in a December 16 press release: "No allergic reactions related to this matter have been reported to date. No other Lay's products, flavors, sizes or variety packs are recalled."



People Washington or Oregon who have in their possession Lay's chips that have both a "guaranteed fresh" date of February 11, and a manufacturing code of either "6462307xx" or "6463307xx" should dispose of those chips immediately, especially if they have milk allergy.

Why do food allergies occur?

They occur as the body's immune system reacts to certain proteins in food. Food allergic reactions vary in severity from mild symptoms involving hives and lip swelling to severe, life-threatening symptoms, often called anaphylaxis, that may involve fatal respiratory problems and shock.



More than 160 foods have been identified to cause food allergies in sensitive individuals.