Frito-Lay’s recall specifically targets the bags of chips that may contain undeclared milk, which has the potential to cause a serious risk to individuals with milk allergies or sensitivities.

The company has confirmed that the affected products were distributed to select retail and e-commerce locations in Oregon and Washington and noted that customers could have purchased these chips as early as November 3, 2024.

​​A representative for Frito-Lay further confirmed the details of the recall in a statement to Newsweek, reiterating the company’s commitment to transparency and consumer safety.

In their comment, the representative also clarified that no other Lay’s products — including flavors, sizes, or variety packs — are involved in the recall.

Additionally, affected customers can reach out to Frito-Lay’s Consumer Relations team at 1-800-352-4477 during regular business hours for assistance.

Two days after Frito-Lay announced the recall, the FDA re-published the same details on their official website to further amplify the message and ensure public awareness and safety.

While cow’s milk is the most frequent trigger, milk from other mammals, such as sheep, goats, and buffalo, can also cause allergic reactions.

These reactions occur because the immune system mistakenly identifies specific proteins in milk — such as casein, found in the curd, or whey, found in the liquid portion — as harmful. This leads to the release of histamines and other chemicals, causing a range of symptoms.

Delayed symptoms, on the other hand, can include digestive issues such as loose stools, abdominal cramps, or colic in infants, as well as respiratory symptoms like a runny nose or watery eyes.

In severe cases, milk allergies can lead to anaphylaxis — a life-threatening reaction that narrows the airways, making breathing difficult. Anaphylaxis symptoms can include a swollen throat, a significant drop in blood pressure, facial flushing, and even shock.

Unlike a milk allergy, which involves the immune system, lactose intolerance is a digestive issue caused by the body’s inability to break down lactose, a sugar found in milk. Symptoms of lactose intolerance, such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea, are typically less severe and do not pose the same risks as a milk allergy.

Moreover, milk allergies are most common in young children, as their digestive systems are still developing. Fortunately, many children outgrow the allergy as they age, though some carry it into adulthood.

This can be challenging, as milk proteins are often hidden in processed foods, baked goods, candies, and even non-dairy-labeled items. However, key terms like “casein,” “whey,” or “lact-” (such as lactose or lactate) on food labels signal the presence of milk proteins.

Parents and caregivers of children with milk allergies need to be particularly vigilant. For infants, breastfeeding or hypoallergenic formulas are recommended, as traditional milk-based formulas may trigger reactions.

If breastfeeding, mothers may need to eliminate dairy from their own diets if cow’s milk proteins pass through breast milk and cause symptoms in their babies.

Additional management tips include asking about food preparation in restaurants, which is vital, as foods like seafood or steak might be prepared with butter, which could lead to accidental exposure.

For those at risk of severe reactions, carrying emergency epinephrine, such as an EpiPen, is essential. Wearing a medical alert bracelet or necklace can also help inform others of the allergy in emergencies.

Living with a milk allergy can have a significant impact on quality of life. Dietary restrictions may lead to nutritional deficiencies, particularly in calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients found in milk.

Thus, consulting a healthcare provider or dietitian can help individuals plan balanced meals and consider supplements to fill these nutritional gaps.