by Washington, D.C. – Federal health officials are alerting consumers after an Idaho-based food company voluntarily recalled more than 38,000 cases of frozen tater tots sold across 26 states due to possible contamination with clear, hard plastic fragments. The recall affects foodservice and bulk-packaged products distributed nationwide.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says consumers and businesses should immediately stop using the recalled products and follow disposal or return instructions to avoid potential health risks.
Overview of the Recall
The recall was initiated on December 3, 2025, by McCain Foods USA Inc., which operates out of Idaho. According to the FDA, the company discovered that certain tater tot products may contain pieces of clear, hard plastic, prompting a voluntary nationwide recall.
The products were packaged in clear, unlabeled poly bags per case, making it especially important for distributors, restaurants, and institutional buyers to carefully review item numbers and batch codes.
Products Included in the Recall
Two frozen potato products are affected:
Ore-Ida Tater Tots
- Total recalled cases: 21,256
- Item number: OIF00215A
- Net weight: 30 pounds
- UPC: 1 00 72714 00215 8
- Batch codes: 1005479808, 1005477924, 1005478883, 1005480444, 1005480875, 1005481627, 1005481770
Sysco Imperial Potato Tater Barrel
- Total recalled cases: 17,597
- Item number: 1000006067
- Weight: 6/5 pounds
- UPC: 1 07 34730 62740 0
- Batch codes: 1005482717, 1005483735, 1005484702, 1005485462, 1005485660
States Impacted by the Recall
The recalled tater tots were distributed in 26 states, including:
- Arkansas
- Arizona
- California
- Colorado
- Florida
- Hawaii
- Iowa
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- Mississippi
- Montana
- Nebraska
- New Mexico
- North Dakota
- Nevada
- Oregon
- Texas
- Utah
- Washington
- Wisconsin
Consumers and foodservice operators in these states are urged to check their freezers immediately.
Health Risks and FDA Classification
The FDA has classified the recall as a Class II, meaning exposure to the affected products could cause temporary or medically reversible health issues, though the risk of serious injury is considered low.
Plastic fragments in food can still pose dangers, including choking hazards, mouth or dental injuries, and potential gastrointestinal irritation if swallowed. While no injuries or illnesses have been reported in connection with this recall, officials stress that even small pieces of plastic can be harmful.
What Consumers and Businesses Should Do
If you believe you may have purchased or received the recalled products:
- Do not consume the product
- Check item numbers, UPCs, and batch codes carefully
- Dispose of the product safely or return it to the point of purchase
- If symptoms such as throat pain, abdominal discomfort, or injury occur after consumption, seek medical attention
Restaurants, schools, hospitals, and other institutions should ensure recalled products are removed from inventory immediately to prevent accidental use.
Broader Food Safety Context
Food recalls involving foreign material contamination remain a recurring issue in large-scale food production. Federal regulators rely on manufacturers and distributors to act quickly when potential hazards are identified, helping prevent injuries and maintain public trust in the food supply.
Consumers are encouraged to stay informed about recalls and regularly review product notices, especially for frozen and bulk-packaged foods that may be stored for long periods.
Conclusion
More than 38,000 cases of frozen tater tots are now off the market as a precautionary measure to protect consumers from potential plastic contamination. Officials urge anyone in affected states to review their products carefully and take immediate action if they find recalled items.
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