Tater tots recall notices have been announced after reports of possible plastic contamination in certain frozen potato products. Frozen foods are a staple in many households, especially busy families who rely on quick and convenient meals. Recently, a recall involving frozen tater tots and similar potato products has raised concerns after reports of possible hard plastic contamination.
If you have frozen potato products in your freezer, here’s everything you need to know — explained clearly, calmly, and without unnecessary alarm.
Representative image of frozen tater tots packaging similar to recalled products.
What Products Are Included in the Recall?
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the recall affects specific frozen potato products distributed to food service locations and, in some cases, consumers.
Representative image of frozen tater tots packaging similar to recalled products.
Ore-Ida Tater Tots
- Package size: 30-pound bulk bags
- UPC: 10072714002158
- Item number: OIF00215A
- Affected batch codes:
- 1005479808
- 1005477924
- 1005478883
- 1005480444
- 1005480875
- 1005481627
- 1005481770
- 1005479808
Representative image of frozen tater tots packaging similar to recalled products.
Sysco Imperial Potato Tater Barrels
- Package size: 6 × 5-pound bags
- UPC: 10734730627400
- Item number: 1000006067
- Affected batch codes:
- 1005482717
- 1005483735
- 1005484702
- 1005485462
- 1005485660
- 1005482717
These products were distributed across multiple U.S. states, primarily through restaurants, schools, and institutional food services — but leftovers, shared purchases, or secondary sales may mean some ended up in home freezers.
Why Was This Recall Issued?
The recall was initiated after reports that hard, clear plastic fragments may have entered the product during processing.
Why plastic contamination matters:
- Plastic fragments do not dissolve
- They may be difficult to see once cooked
- They can pose risks even in small pieces
What Are the Possible Health Risks?
While no widespread injuries have been publicly reported, ingestion of hard plastic can lead to:
- Choking hazards (especially for children and older adults)
- Cuts or injuries to the mouth or throat
- Digestive tract irritation or injury
- Dental damage
Because of these risks, the FDA categorized this as a Class II recall, meaning the product could cause temporary or medically reversible health effects.
What Should You Do If You Have These Tater Tots?
If you discover one of the recalled products:
Do This:
✔ Do not eat the product
✔ Seal it in a bag before discarding to avoid accidental consumption
✔ Return it to the retailer or supplier if refunds are offered
✔ Clean freezer shelves or bins where the product was stored
Seek medical advice if:
- Someone may have swallowed plastic
- You experience throat pain, difficulty swallowing, or abdominal discomfort after eating the product
Who to Contact for Refunds or Questions
If you purchased one of the recalled frozen tater tot products and have questions about refunds, returns, or safety concerns, here is the correct contact information.
Company Issuing the Recall
McCain Foods USA, Inc.
McCain Foods is the manufacturer responsible for the recalled frozen potato products, including the affected tater tots.
Customer Support / Consumer Affairs
- Phone: 1-877-804-6198
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Central Time)
- Website: https://www.mccainfoodsusa.com/contact-us/
Consumers can contact McCain Foods to:
- Ask if their product is included in the recall
- Request refund or replacement instructions
- Report product concerns or quality issues
How to Check Frozen Foods for Recalls (Without Panic)
Many recalls apply to specific lot or batch numbers, not entire brands.
Here’s how to check safely and calmly:
- Look for the UPC and batch code on the packaging
- Match it exactly to the recall notice
- If packaging is missing, err on the side of caution
- Avoid throwing away unrelated products unnecessarily
Keeping original packaging until food is consumed can make recall checks much easier.
Why Recalls Like This Happen
Food recalls don’t always mean negligence or unsafe facilities. In many cases, recalls are issued out of caution when a potential issue is discovered.
In this case, the recall demonstrates:
- Monitoring systems detected a possible issue
- Action was taken before widespread harm occurred
- Consumers were notified so they could act safely
Key Takeaways
- Product type: Frozen tater tots and potato barrels
- Risk: Possible hard plastic contamination
- Recall level: FDA Class II
- Action needed: Do not consume; discard or return if affected
Staying informed — not fearful — is the best way to protect yourself and your household.
Helpful Tip for the Future
Consider setting a reminder to periodically review food recall notices, especially if you buy in bulk or store frozen foods long-term.