Additional Coverage:
- Thermos recalls 8.2 million bottles after stoppers eject, causing injury and reported vision loss (nbcnews.com)
Thermos Issues Nationwide Recall of 8.2 Million Food Jars and Bottles Over Safety Concerns
Thermos has announced a major recall involving approximately 8.2 million of its food jars and beverage bottles following reports of serious injuries. Consumers have experienced lacerations and, in some cases, permanent vision loss after the stoppers on these products unexpectedly ejected and struck them in the face.
The recall affects around 5.8 million Stainless King Food Jars and 2.3 million Sportsman Food & Beverage Bottles. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission issued an advisory on April 30 urging customers to stop using the affected items immediately.
Models included in the recall are:
- Thermos Sportsman Food & Beverage Bottles: all units, model SK3010
- Thermos Food Jars and Food & Beverage Bottles: all units of models SK3000 (16 oz), SK3020 (24 oz), and SK3010 (40 oz)
- Stainless King Food Jars manufactured before July 2023: models SK3000 and SK3020
Model numbers can be found on the bottom of each product.
The safety hazard is linked to a design flaw in the stopper, which is meant to keep contents hot and prevent leaks. When perishable foods or drinks are stored for extended periods, pressure can build inside the container. Because these stoppers lack a pressure-relief valve, the pressure may cause them to eject forcefully upon opening.
Thermos has received 27 reports of stoppers striking consumers, including incidents requiring medical treatment. Alarmingly, three consumers reported permanent vision loss after being hit in the eye.
The recalled containers were sold nationwide between March 2008 and July 2024 through major retailers including Walmart, Target, Amazon, and Thermos’ official website. They come in various colors and are marked with the Thermos trademark.
Owners of SK3000 and SK3020 Food Jars are advised to remove and dispose of the stoppers and submit a photo of the disposal to Thermos. Those with SK3010 bottles should return the product via a prepaid shipping label provided by the company.
For more information on the recall process, consumers should visit the Thermos recall page on the company’s website.