WASHINGTON, D.C. — In one of the largest safety actions of the year, Thermos L.L.C. has issued a massive recall of approximately 8.2 million food jars and beverage bottles. The recall follows harrowing reports of consumers sustaining severe facial injuries, including permanent blindness, caused by forcefully ejecting stoppers.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the defect involves a lack of a pressure-relief feature in the center of the stoppers. If perishable food or beverages are stored in these containers for an extended period, pressure can build up internally. When a user attempts to twist the lid open, the stopper can “shoot off” with enough force to cause catastrophic impact injuries.
Severe Injuries Reported
Federal officials confirmed that at least 27 incidents have been reported to the company. While many victims suffered lacerations and bruising, three consumers have suffered permanent vision loss after being struck in the eye by the flying stoppers.
The CPSC warns that the hazard is particularly dangerous because the ejection is sudden and occurs as the consumer’s face is typically close to the container while opening it.
The recall covers specific models manufactured between March 2008 and July 2024. Consumers are urged to check the model numbers printed on the bottom of their containers.
| Product Name | Sizes Affected | Model Numbers |
| Stainless King Food Jars | 16-oz and 24-oz | SK3000 and SK3020 |
| Sportsman Food & Beverage Bottles | 40-oz | SK3010 |
Note: For the Stainless King models, the recall only affects those manufactured before July 2023.
The products were sold nationwide at Target, Walmart, and other major retailers, as well as online through Amazon.com, Thermos.com, and Walmart.com. Most containers retailed for approximately $30 and were available in various colors, including matte blue, red, black, and stainless steel.
What Consumers Should Do
Safety officials are advising anyone who owns these products to stop using them immediately. The remedy provided by Thermos depends on which model you own:
- Stainless King Jars (SK3000/SK3020): Owners will receive a free replacement stopper that includes a new pressure-relief valve. Thermos requires that you dispose of the old stopper and provide a photo of the discarded part as proof before shipping the replacement.
- Sportsman Bottles (SK3010): Because the entire unit is affected, owners will receive a full replacement bottle. Thermos will provide a prepaid shipping label to return the recalled item.
To initiate a claim, consumers can visit support.thermos.com or call the company’s dedicated recall line at 662-563-6822 from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. CT, Monday through Friday.
The recalled stoppers are solid in the center. The new, safe replacement stoppers feature a visible pressure-relief valve designed to vent gas slowly as the lid is turned, preventing the “projectile” effect that caused the recent injuries.
