USDA Issues Alert for Walmart Dinosaur-shaped Chicken Nuggets Over Lead Risk

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service issued a public health alert for certain frozen, dinosaur-shaped chicken nuggets sold at Walmart stores nationwide because the products may contain unsafe levels of lead.

No recall was requested because the nuggets are no longer available for purchase, but federal officials said they are concerned some packages may still be stored in consumers’ freezers.

The alert covers 29-ounce plastic bags containing about 36 pieces of “Great Value Fully Cooked Dino Shaped Chicken Breast Nuggets.” The product was produced Feb. 10, 2026, and has a “best if used by” date of Feb. 10, 2027, lot code “0416DPO1215,” and establishment number “P44164” printed on the back of the bag.

FSIS said the items were shipped to Walmart locations nationwide and that the agency’s investigation is ongoing. Additional products could be added to the alert, officials said.

The issue was discovered during routine surveillance sampling conducted by a state partner, according to FSIS.

Lead exposure is especially dangerous for pregnant women, infants and young children because it can damage developing brains and nervous systems and may cause lasting health problems. Federal officials said there is no safe level of lead exposure. The Food and Drug Administration’s interim reference level is 2.2 micrograms, and FSIS said the amount of lead found in the nuggets could be as much as five times higher than that level for children.

Officials also warned the product may pose a risk to women who are pregnant or may become pregnant. More information about the health effects of lead exposure is available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Consumers who bought the nuggets should not eat them and should either throw them away or return them to the place of purchase, FSIS said.

Media and consumer questions about the alert may be directed to John Patrick Lopez, vice president of strategy, communications and government affairs at Dorada Foods, at john.patrick@lopezdorada.com.

Consumers with food safety questions can contact the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 888-674-6854 or email MPHotline@usda.gov. Problems involving meat, poultry or egg products also may be reported through the agency’s Electronic Consumer Complaint Monitoring System.