SkinnyPop Removes White Cheddar Popcorn Over Allergy Concerns

The brand plans to reintroduce the flavor with new packaging later this year.

Mar. 10, 2026 at 12:07am

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SkinnyPop is voluntarily removing its newly launched dairy-containing White Cheddar Popcorn from store shelves to avoid confusion for consumers with milk allergies. The product is properly labeled and safe for those without milk allergies, but SkinnyPop is taking this precautionary measure due to similar packaging between its dairy-containing and dairy-free White Cheddar Popcorn varieties.

Why it matters

Milk is one of the nine major food allergens, and the FDA has received many reports of undeclared milk in food products, which can be life-threatening for those with a milk allergy. SkinnyPop's decision to remove the product demonstrates their commitment to consumer safety and transparency.

The details

SkinnyPop stated that the dairy-containing White Cheddar Popcorn variety is safe for consumers who do not have milk allergies, but those with a milk allergy should not consume it. The company made this voluntary decision out of an abundance of caution due to the similar packaging between the dairy-containing and dairy-free versions, which could contribute to confusion at retail or at home.

  • In early March 2026, SkinnyPop announced it was voluntarily removing the dairy-containing White Cheddar Popcorn from store shelves.

The players

SkinnyPop

A popcorn brand owned by The Hershey Company.

Maya Vadiveloo

An assistant professor in the department of nutrition and food sciences at the University of Rhode Island.

Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

The federal agency responsible for protecting public health by regulating food, drugs, and other products.

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What they’re saying

“All SkinnyPop products are accurately labeled, including ingredient lists and allergen statements.”

— SkinnyPop

“Of the major food allergens, milk represents the most common cause of recalls due to undeclared allergens.”

— Food and Drug Administration

“When prepared well, popcorn actually is a pretty good snack. It's stable. It's inexpensive. It's fairly tasty. For people who might be struggling to eat adequate fruits or vegetables or other whole grains, it's a low-risk snack to start.”

— Maya Vadiveloo, Assistant Professor, University of Rhode Island

What’s next

SkinnyPop plans to reintroduce the White Cheddar Popcorn flavor in new packaging later this year.

The takeaway

This voluntary decision by SkinnyPop highlights the importance of clear labeling and transparency around food allergens, especially for common allergens like milk. It demonstrates the company's commitment to consumer safety and avoiding potential confusion that could put those with milk allergies at risk.