Thermos recalls over 8 million Stainless King products over injury concerns

A massive nationwide recall has been issued for more than 8 million Thermos brand food jars and beverage bottles after federal safety officials warned the products could cause serious injuries. 

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, the recall affects approximately 8.2 million units, including about 5.8 million Stainless King food jars and 2.3 million Sportsman food and beverage bottles. 

The pressure relief stopper

What we know:

The issue centers on the containers’ stopper design. The recall notice says the lid lacks a pressure relief feature, which can cause pressure to build up inside, specifically when foods or liquids are stored for extended periods. When opened, that pressure can cause the stopper to forcefully eject, posing a risk of impact injuries and lacerations. 

Big picture view:

There have been at least 27 such incidents of the ejecting stopper striking people, some causing lacerations requiring medical attention. Three people have permanently lost vision after being hit in the eye by a stopper. 

The recalled products

Thermos sold the bottles and jars between March 2008 and July 2024. They were sold at Target and Walmart, as well as their online websites, amongst other nationwide retailers. They were also available for purchase on Amazon.

The recall is for:

• Stainless King Food Jars (SK3000 and SK3020)
• Sportsman Food & Beverage Bottles (SK3010)

What’s next:

Consumers are asked to immediately stop using the affected containers. Thermos is offering remedies that include free replacement parts or product replacement altogether. Consumers are urged to dispose of the stopper for the food jars and return the bottles to Thermos by using a prepaid shipping label.