Walmart recalls bottles after ejecting lids cause two people to go blind

Walmart has issued a recall of approximately 850,000 stainless steel water bottles sold under its Ozark Trail brand due to a potential safety risk linked to the product’s lid mechanism.

According to a notice from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the recall affects 64 oz stainless steel insulated water bottles that have been available in Walmart stores across the United States since 2017. The products have been deemed to present a serious risk of injury, as the lid can eject forcefully in certain conditions, posing impact and laceration hazards.

The safety concern arises when consumers attempt to open the bottle after it has been used to store carbonated or perishable beverages, such as juice or milk, over time. Pressure build-up inside the sealed container can cause the lid to eject unexpectedly and with force.

As of the recall announcement, Walmart had received three reports of consumers being struck in the face, with two individuals suffering permanent vision loss after being hit in the eye, according to the CPSC.

Consumers in possession of the affected bottles are advised to discontinue use immediately. Walmart is offering a full refund, and customers can either contact the retailer directly or return the product to their nearest store to claim compensation.