Walmart has issued a nationwide recall of 850,000 stainless steel water bottles sold under its Ozark Trail brand after multiple injuries, including cases of permanent eye damage, were linked to the product.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) confirmed the recall on 10 July, warning that the bottles pose a serious impact hazard.
The affected items include 64oz (1.9L) insulated bottles with black screw-on lids and the Ozark Trail logo etched on the side. They were manufactured in China and sold between April 2023 and May 2024 at Walmart stores and online via Walmart.com. Priced at approximately $15 (£12), the bottles were marketed as durable outdoor gear.
Pressure Build-Up Behind Dangerous Lid Ejections
According to the CPSC, the safety hazard arises when perishable liquids such as milk or juice are stored inside the sealed bottles for extended periods. This can result in the build-up of internal pressure, causing the lid to forcefully eject when unscrewed.
At least three injuries have been reported to date, two of which resulted in permanent vision loss. In one incident detailed by the Daily Mail, a consumer was struck in the face by the lid, suffering immediate and irreversible eye trauma.
The bottles reportedly failed even under normal usage, raising significant concerns about the product's design.
Customers Urged to Stop Use Immediately
Walmart has advised all customers to stop using the recalled water bottles and return them for a full refund. An online recall portal has been established, and returns will be accepted in-store without the need for receipts.
Affected items can be identified by the model number '0838196024464' located on the bottom of the packaging. All impacted bottles share the same visual design: a stainless steel body with a black plastic lid.
The company is encouraging consumers to spread the word, especially if the bottles were gifted or used during camping trips, travel or outdoor work.
Walmart Responds to Safety Concerns
In a statement, Walmart said it remains 'committed to the safety of all customers' and is cooperating closely with U.S. regulatory bodies. Although the company has not announced any future product redesigns, all affected units have been removed from shelves and online listings.
This incident follows another product recall earlier in 2025 involving MaxKare heated blankets, which posed an overheating risk. However, the current recall has attracted more attention due to the severity of the reported injuries.
Debate Over Safety of Insulated Bottles
The recall has reignited discussions around the safety of vacuum-insulated drinkware, particularly containers used to store acidic or fermenting liquids. Industry experts warn that many bottles lack adequate pressure-release mechanisms, making them unsafe for anything other than water.
'Consumers often assume these bottles can store anything,' a U.S. product safety consultant told Reuters. 'But they are primarily designed for still water, not carbonated drinks or dairy-based liquids.'
Legal Action Possible, Investigation Ongoing
While no lawsuits have yet been filed, legal analysts say product liability claims are likely, given the serious nature of the injuries. The CPSC is continuing its investigation and may expand its safety reviews to include other insulated drinkware on the market.
Customers seeking more information are advised to visit Walmart's recall page or contact customer service directly. The CPSC has also posted a public safety alert on its official website.
