Frozen pizzas sold at Walmart, Aldi recalled over salmonella risk: See which products are affected – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Unsplash)
Shoppers at two of the nation’s largest grocery chains face a pressing food safety concern after federal authorities expanded a public health alert to include specific frozen pizzas. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service issued the alert on April 30, 2026, and updated it the following day to cover products containing recalled dry milk powder potentially tainted with salmonella.[1][2] No illnesses have been confirmed in connection with these items so far.
The Root of the Recall
Federal investigators traced the issue to dry milk powder that the Food and Drug Administration had previously recalled due to possible salmonella contamination. Manufacturers used this ingredient in various meat and poultry products, including the frozen pizzas now under alert. The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service acted quickly to notify the public once the link became clear.[3]
Production dates for the affected pizzas cluster around late February through mid-April 2026, with best-by dates extending into late 2026. This timeline underscores how supply chain issues can lead to widespread risks even months after manufacturing. Authorities emphasized that cooking does not eliminate salmonella in these cases, prompting the do-not-eat advisory.[2]
Aldi Products on the List
Aldi customers should inspect their freezers for two Mama Cozzi’s breakfast pizzas produced under establishment number EST5699. These items were made between February 17 and 26, 2026, and sold nationwide.[2] The alert targets:
- Mama Cozzi’s Biscuit Crust Sausage & Cheese Breakfast Pizza, 18.5-oz., with best-by dates of Oct. 15, 21, 22, 23, or 24, 2026.
- Mama Cozzi’s Biscuit Crust Cooked Pork Belly Crumbles, Cooked Bacon Topping, Pepper & Onion Breakfast Pizza, 17.15-oz., with the same best-by dates.
These breakfast-style pizzas gained popularity for their unique biscuit crusts, but the potential contamination has halted sales. Aldi has not yet posted a specific recall notice on its corporate site, though consumers can return products for refunds.
Walmart Items Affected
Walmart added three Great Value frozen pizzas to the alert, expanding the scope significantly. These products bear establishment numbers M1487 or M1928 and were distributed across the country.[2] Shoppers need to check for:
- Great Value Thin Crust Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza, 17.55-oz., lot codes WC103203 or WC103803, best if used by Oct. 9 or Nov. 7, 2026 (produced Feb. 11 or March 12, 2026).
- Great Value Stuffed Crust Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza, 23.1-oz., lot codes WC104173, WC104065, or WC103793, best if used by Oct. 25, 26, or Nov. 8, 2026 (produced Feb. 28, March 1, or March 8, 2026).
- Great Value Stuffed Crust Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza, 23.1-oz., lot code WJ100977, best if used by Dec. 9, 2026 (produced April 13, 2026).
The chicken bacon ranch flavors represent a staple in Walmart’s frozen section, making this recall particularly relevant for budget-conscious families. Walmart’s recall page does not list these yet, but the federal alert takes precedence.
Key Action Steps: Do not consume these pizzas, even if cooked. Discard them or return to the store for a refund. Wash hands, surfaces, and utensils that may have contacted the products to prevent cross-contamination.[1]
Health Risks and Next Steps
Salmonella infection typically causes diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, with symptoms appearing six hours to six days after exposure. Most healthy individuals recover within a week, but vulnerable groups like young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems face higher risks of severe illness. The absence of reported cases so far offers some reassurance, yet officials urge caution.[3]
Consumers should monitor the USDA FSIS website for updates, as the product list could grow. Retailers like Aldi and Walmart continue to pull items from shelves. Staying vigilant with recalls protects families and highlights the importance of checking best-by dates and lot codes routinely.
