Walmart recalls 850,000 Ozark Trail water bottles over severe safety risk

USA — Retail giant Walmart is recalling approximately 850,000 stainless steel water bottles sold under its Ozark Trail brand due to a dangerous defect that has already resulted in multiple injuries, including two cases of permanent vision loss.

The recall, announced on Thursday by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), applies specifically to the Ozark Trail 64 oz Stainless Steel Insulated Water Bottles, which have been sold in Walmart stores nationwide and online since 2017.

The problem stems from a hazardous lid design that can “forcefully eject” under pressure, potentially striking users in the face.

According to the CPSC notice, the bottles pose serious impact and laceration hazards, especially if they contain perishable beverages such as milk or juice, or carbonated drinks that can ferment or build up pressure over time.

When the consumer attempts to unscrew the black, one-piece cap, the built-up pressure can cause the lid to shoot off without warning.

Walmart has received three injury reports involving the defective bottles. In two of those cases, consumers were hit in the eye and suffered permanent vision loss.

The recalled product is identifiable by its 64-ounce capacity, silver stainless steel base, and black screw-on cap.

The Ozark Trail logo is engraved on the side, though the product’s model number (83-662) appears only on the original packaging, not on the bottle itself.

Walmart has urged customers to immediately stop using the bottles and return them for a full refund. Customers affected by this issue may contact Walmart directly or bring the product to their nearest store.

In a statement issued to the Associated Press, Walmart emphasized its commitment to consumer safety, “The health and safety of our customers is always a top priority. We have fully cooperated with the CPSC and the manufacturer to remove the affected products from our stores and notify consumers.”

This is not the first time the Ozark Trail brand has come under scrutiny. In 2020, the same product line was the subject of a separate recall involving water bottles that could leak or break under impact.

The latest recall adds to ongoing conversations about product safety in consumer housewares, particularly concerning insulated and pressure-sensitive containers.

Regulatory agencies continue to stress the importance of proper labelling and material testing, especially for items used with perishable or pressurized liquids.

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