The recall follows reports of severe injuries, including permanent vision loss, caused by a design flaw in the product’s stopper. Thermos is recalling more than 8 million food jars and bottles due to a defect that allows stoppers to forcefully eject, posing significant safety risks to consumers.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has emphasized the urgency of this situation. “Consumers should stop using the recalled Food Jars and Bottles immediately and contact Thermos to receive a free replacement pressure relief stopper or replacement Bottle, depending on the model,” the agency stated.
This recall affects approximately 5.8 million Stainless King Food Jars and 2.3 million Sportsman Food & Beverage Bottles sold at major retailers such as Target and Walmart from March 2008 through July 2024. Documents show that Thermos received at least 27 injury reports related to the ejected stoppers, with three consumers suffering permanent vision loss after being struck in the eye.
The issue stems from the stoppers lacking a proper pressure-relief mechanism, which allows pressure to build up inside the containers—this condition can lead to dangerous ejection when opened. As noted by the CPSC, “If perishable food or beverages are stored in the container for an extended period of time, the stopper can forcefully eject when opened, which can result in serious impact injury and laceration hazards to the consumer.”
Consumers are strongly advised to cease using these products immediately. The potential for serious injury highlights the importance of food storage safety and adherence to product guidelines.
