“Permanent loss of vision”: Thermos recalls 8.2 million bottles and jars because of defective caps

A defect with sometimes dramatic consequences. Thermos is recalling 8.2 million food cans and bottles after U.S. consumers suffered laceration injuries when caps violently ejected from products upon opening and hit them in the face.

The recall affects approximately 5.8 million Stainless King food cans and 2.3 million Sportsman Food & Beverage insulated bottles. According to the recall notice issued by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on April 30, consumers should stop using these products immediately.

In detail, the models concerned are the Thermos Sportsman Food & Beverage insulated bottles, with all units of the SK3010 model, as well as the food boxes and Food & Beverage bottles, for all units of the SK3000, SK3020 and SK3010 models. Finally, Thermos Stainless King food containers manufactured before July 2023, models SK3000 and SK3020, are also subject to the recall.

The danger comes from a design flaw in the cap, which is designed to retain heat and prevent leaks. If perishable food or beverages are stored for a long time, pressure builds up and can cause the cap to eject violently when the container is opened. Unlike other safer designs from the famous brand, the caps of the models affected by the recall do not have a pressure relief valve.

French consumers potentially affected?

In total, as many as 27 consumers were hit by an ejected cap and suffered injuries requiring medical attention, according to Thermos. Three consumers reported experiencing permanent vision loss after being struck in the eye.

The products affected by this recall were sold between March 2008 and July 2024 at Target, Walmart and other stores across the United States, as well as online at Amazon.com, Walmart.com, Target.com and Thermos.com, the statement said.

Affected consumers should immediately stop using the recalled food containers and bottles and contact Thermos to receive a free replacement pressure relief cap or bottle, depending on the model.

“At the moment, we are only processing compensation claims and replacements for the United States,” says Thermos, but it is therefore not impossible that the affected models were sold in Europe or France via online sales platforms.