The recent McCain tater tots recall has people checking their freezers from coast to coast. Some batches may contain small pieces of plastic, which, while not usually dangerous, could pose a health risk.
Federal officials have issued a safety alert, and knowing which products are affected and what to do if you have them can help keep your family safe. This Tater Tots Recall affects products distributed across multiple states.
Recall Overview
McCain Foods USA Inc. voluntarily recalled nearly 40,000 cases of tater tots, including Ore-Ida and Sysco Imperial Potato Barrels, after small pieces of plastic were found during quality checks.
While the FDA classifies this as a Class II recall meaning serious illness is unlikely it’s still a warning worth noting, especially for families and restaurants handling bulk orders. The Tater Tots Recall remains active while investigations continue.
FDA Statement and Safety Alert

The FDA warns that some tater tots may contain hard, clear plastic pieces. A Class II recall means any health effects are usually temporary and treatable.
Consumers are advised not to eat the affected products and to follow recall instructions carefully. Businesses should set aside affected inventory, and everyone should double-check packaging to avoid accidental ingestion. The Tater Tots Recall was officially classified as a Class II action by the FDA.
Affected Products and Packaging Details
The recalled tater tots include two major items. First are Ore-Ida Tater Tots, packaged in 30-pound cases. Second are Sysco Imperial Potato Tater Barrels, sold in six 5-pound bags per case. Both fall under the broader McCain tater tots recall.
Check your tater tots carefully look at the item numbers and batch codes to see if they match the recalled products. These items were distributed across many states, from California to Florida and Texas to Wisconsin.
If your package matches, follow the recall instructions.
Reference Table
| Product Name | Brand | Case Size | Risk Issue | Recall Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ore-Ida Tater Tots | Ore-Ida Tater Tots | 30 lb case | Plastic fragments | FDA Class II recall |
| Imperial Potato Tater Barrels | Sysco Imperial Potato Tater Barrels | 6 x 5 lb bags | Plastic fragments | FDA Class II recall |
If your packaging matches these descriptions, you may have recalled tater tots in your freezer. Always double check your freezer if you believe the Tater Tots Recall may impact your household.
Health Risks of Contamination

Even small pieces of plastic can be dangerous they could cause choking or scratch the throat, and in rare cases, may harm the digestive tract. Children, older adults, and people with swallowing difficulties are especially at risk. While serious illness is unlikely, anyone experiencing discomfort should seek medical attention.
How to Check Your Tater Tots
Take the tater tots out of the freezer and check the label for Ore-Ida or Sysco Imperial brands. Look at the batch code and item number near the seal.
Make sure your state is among the distribution areas. If everything matches, follow recall instructions. When in doubt, contact the retailer or manufacturer to be safe.
What to Do if You Have the Product

Don’t eat recalled tater tots even a single bite could be risky. Return them to the store for a refund, or if that’s not possible, safely discard them in a sealed bag. Restaurants and other businesses should set aside affected inventory and document its disposal to stay compliant.
Recent Recalls and Related News
This isn’t the first frozen food recall this year. The FDA has also recalled vegetables, frozen meals, and snacks mostly due to contamination or labeling mistakes.
Comparison Table
| Year | Product Type | Issue | Recall Class |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Frozen vegetables | Listeria risk | Class I |
| 2025 | Peanut snack packs | Undeclared allergen | Class I |
| 2026 | Recalled tater tots | Plastic fragments | FDA Class II recall |
Compared to a Class I recall, this McCain tater tots recall carries lower risk. Still, the Food safety alert shows how quickly contamination can affect supply chains.
Consumer Tips and Precautions

Stay alert when buying frozen foods and check recall databases regularly. Keep receipts and packaging until the product is used. Make sure seals are intact and expiration dates are clear. If packaging looks damaged, skip it. Being aware of recalls and food safety tips keeps your kitchen safe.
Official Links and Resources
For verified information about the McCain tater tots recall, consult official government sources. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) maintains a searchable recall database.
You can also check updates from McCain Foods USA Inc. through their corporate announcements. These official resources provide updated Consumer safety instructions and confirm whether additional recalled tater tots batches appear later. Relying on accurate sources prevents misinformation and keeps your household informed.
Stay Updated

Food recalls happen more often than many realize. Signing up for FDA email alerts can keep you informed about recalled tater tots and other products. Some grocery stores also send notifications through loyalty programs.
Staying informed helps protect your family this recall is a reminder that even trusted brands can have issues. Check your freezer and spread the word.
FAQs
1. What is the Tater Tots Recall about?
The Tater Tots Recall involves certain frozen potato products pulled from stores due to possible plastic fragments found inside the packaging.
2. Which brands are included in the recalled tater tots?
The recall includes Ore-Ida Tater Tots and Sysco Imperial Potato Tater Barrels distributed by McCain Foods USA Inc.
3. Why were the tater tots recalled?
They were recalled because of potential plastic contamination in food, which could pose a choking or injury risk.
4. What does an FDA Class II recall mean?
An FDA Class II recall means the product may cause temporary or medically reversible health effects, but serious harm is unlikely.
5. What should I do if I have recalled tater tots at home?
Do not eat them; return the product for a refund or dispose of it safely following official recall guidance.

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