Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

Lay’s potato chips sold in the UAE are safe and meet regulatory standards, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) confirmed on Saturday (February 8), in response to concerns over a US recall. The clarification comes after the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) escalated a recall of Lay’s Classic Potato Chips due to undeclared milk derivatives, which pose a severe allergy risk to consumers with milk allergies. The affected products were sold in the US states of Oregon and Washington. In a statement posted on social media platform X, the UAE ministry assured the public that food products undergo strict registration and inspection procedures before being allowed into the market. “We confirm that Lay’s chips in the UAE are safe for consumption and comply with all local food safety regulations,” the statement read. The recall in the US initially began last December 16, affecting 6,344 bags of Lay’s Classic Potato Chips, each weighing 13 ounces. Frito-Lay, the manufacturer, initiated the recall after a consumer alerted them to the presence of undeclared milk. The FDA classified the recall as Class I, its highest risk level, due to the potential for life-threatening allergic reactions. According to the FDA, milk is one of the eight “major food allergens” that can cause severe reactions such as hives, breathing difficulties, dizziness, or even unconsciousness in individuals with allergies. However, the recall only affects a specific batch of Classic Potato Chips, with no impact on other Lay’s flavors or varieties. This is not the first time the UAE has addressed food safety concerns linked to international recalls. On January 30, MOCCAE reassured residents that Coca-Cola beverages in the UAE were free from high levels of chlorate. This announcement followed a recall in Europe, where the beverage giant withdrew products such as Coke, Sprite, and Fanta due to chlorate contamination concerns. Earlier, on January 22, the Ministry also clarified that withdrawn pepperoni beef products in UAE supermarkets were safe for consumption. The recall was initiated in other countries due to concerns over potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination. MOCCAE responded quickly by investigating the contamination risk before permitting the products back into the market. The Ministry emphasized that the UAE’s food regulatory framework is among the most stringent globally, ensuring that imported and locally produced food items meet the highest safety standards. Authorities continue to monitor global food recalls and have advised residents to stay informed through official announcements. ICA/Expat Media
For all the latest news from the UAE and the world, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and subscribe to our YouTube page