The Recall Desk
HighCPSC·05275·Announced 2005-09-21

Stanley Vacuum Bottles Recalled Due to Handle Breakage and Powder Release

PMI is recalling about 45,000 Stanley thermos bottles because the handles can break, releasing non-toxic charcoal powder that causes breathing and vision issues.

What this means for you

Real risk of harm even if no illness or injury has been reported yet. Stop using the product and follow the agency's guidance.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a risk-of-harm product where injury has been reported (breathing and vision problems), but no fatalities or serious injuries requiring hospitalization are explicitly stated, fitting the High severity criteria.

Plain-English summary

Pacific Market International, LLC (PMI) is recalling approximately 45,000 Stanley thermos bottles, including brushed stainless steel and green 1-liter and 2-quart bottles, as well as 24-oz. wide mouth food jars. The recall involves bottles with date codes C 02, D 02, or A 03 located on the bottom of the bottle. These specific units have only two spot welds per handle bracket, which can cause the handle to break.

When the handle breaks, the vacuum seal fails, releasing organic, non-toxic charcoal powder insulation into the air. PMI has received 654 reports of handles breaking and powder releasing. Of these, 23 reports indicated consumers experienced difficulty breathing or seeing, with some also vomiting or coughing. More than 60 of these incidents occurred in vehicles, creating a potential for impaired vision while driving. Additionally, there have been 446 reports of property damage.

The bottles were sold at Wal-Mart, Kmart, Target, and other discount department stores nationwide from October 2002 through February 2003 for about $25. Consumers should immediately stop using the product and contact PMI at (800) 919-6330 or visit www.Stanley-pmi.com for a free replacement thermos bottle. PMI will cover all shipping charges for returned bottles.

The recalled product

Product
Stanley thermos bottles
Affected units
45,000

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.