The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has elevated the recall of Lay's Classic Potato Chips to a Class I status, the agency's most severe classification, indicating that consumption could lead to serious health consequences or death for individuals with milk allergies. 

Frito-Lay initiated a voluntary recall on December 16, 2024, after a consumer reported the presence of undeclared milk in certain 13-ounce bags of Lay's Classic Potato Chips. The affected products were distributed to retail stores and online distributors in Oregon and Washington starting November 3, 2024. These bags feature a "Guaranteed Fresh" date of February 11, 2025, and the UPC code 28400 31041. 

Individuals with milk allergies are at risk of severe reactions, including hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, and anaphylaxis, upon consuming products containing milk. The FDA advises consumers who have purchased the recalled chips to avoid eating them and to dispose of the product or return it to the retailer for a full refund. 

As of now, no allergic reactions related to this recall have been reported. Frito-Lay has confirmed that no other Lay's products, flavors, sizes, or variety packs are affected by this recall. 

This incident underscores the critical importance of accurate allergen labeling in food products. Undeclared allergens can pose significant health risks to consumers with sensitivities, highlighting the need for stringent quality control measures in food manufacturing.

Consumers seeking more information can contact Frito-Lay's customer service or visit the FDA's official recall page for updates.