The Illinois-based company Thermos has recalled millions of food containers from the market due to the risk of their lids exploding and the potential for serious injuries.
The company recalled approximately 8.2 million packages of its products after receiving reports of injuries to consumers caused by the bottle caps being forced open.
The decision includes Stainless King (SK3000 and SK3020) food containers, as well as Sportsman (SK3010) food and beverage containers. The company explained that the defect stems from the absence of a pressure relief valve inside the seal, leading to gas buildup inside the container, especially when perishable food or beverages are stored for extended periods.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) stated that this defect could cause the plug to pop off unexpectedly when the package is opened, potentially leading to serious injuries, especially to the face and eyes.
According to the company, 27 reports of injuries related to these incidents were recorded, including cases that required medical attention, in addition to three cases of permanent vision loss as a result of direct eye injuries.
These products were sold in major stores such as Target and Walmart, as well as through Amazon and the company's website, during the period from March 2008 to July 2024, at a price of approximately $30.
Authorities urged consumers to immediately stop using these containers and contact the company for safe alternatives. For Stainless King containers, users are asked to remove the stopper and send a photo, while Sportsman container users are asked to return the product via prepaid shipping.
Experts warn that direct eye injuries can lead to serious complications, such as corneal abrasions and orbital fractures, and may even result in retinal detachment, a medical emergency that can cause permanent vision loss if not treated promptly. These injuries can also lead to increased intraocular pressure and traumatic glaucoma.
In closing, Thermos apologized for the defect, urging its customers to stop using the affected products and contact them for replacements or spare parts.
