What Is Being Recalled
The recall covers three specific Thermos models sold under the Stainless King and Sportsman product lines:
| Model | Size | Product Type |
|---|---|---|
| SK3000 | 16 oz | Stainless King Food Jar |
| SK3020 | 24 oz | Stainless King Food Jar |
| SK3010 | 40 oz | Sportsman Food & Beverage Bottle |
The recall covers approximately 5.8 million food jars (SK3000 and SK3020) and 2.3 million bottles (SK3010). Products were sold nationwide at Target, Walmart, Amazon, and other major retailers from approximately March 2008 through July 2024, at around $30 each.
Important exception: SK3000 and SK3020 units manufactured after July 2023 are not included in the recall. Check the bottom of your container for the manufacture date.
The Hazard Explained
The stoppers on the recalled containers lack a pressure-relief valve in the center. When perishable food or beverages are stored in the sealed container for an extended period, fermentation or temperature change can build pressure inside. When the lid is then opened, the stopper can eject with enough force to cause serious injury.
Thermos has received 27 incident reports. Three consumers were struck in the eye by an ejecting stopper and suffered permanent vision loss. Additional reports document lacerations and impact injuries requiring medical attention.
How to Check If Your Thermos Is Affected
- Locate the model number on the bottom of your container — look for SK3000, SK3020, or SK3010.
- For SK3000 and SK3020 models, confirm the manufacture date is July 2023 or earlier.
- If your container matches, stop using it immediately.
How to Get a Free Replacement
Thermos is offering two remedies depending on the model:
- SK3000 / SK3020 (food jars): Discard the stopper, photograph it, and submit the photo to Thermos. You will receive a free replacement pressure-relief stopper.
- SK3010 (bottles): Thermos will provide a prepaid shipping label so you can return the recalled bottle. You will receive a full replacement bottle.
Contact Thermos: - Online: support.thermos.com - Phone: 662-563-6822 (Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–3:30 p.m. CT)
Do not donate or give away recalled containers.
Why This Matters
Insulated food jars and beverage bottles have become everyday kitchen tools for millions of US home cooks — used for packed lunches, hot soups, and overnight oats. The Stainless King line was a popular mid-range option widely available at mass retailers, meaning a significant number of households are likely to have at least one affected unit in a cabinet or lunch bag right now.
The injuries reported here are not minor. Permanent vision loss from a container stopper is a severe, life-altering outcome. The 16-year sales window (2008–2024) means older containers that have long been considered trustworthy may be at risk — especially if used frequently to store leftovers or fermented beverages where pressure can accumulate.
Conclusion
Check your kitchen and pantry for Thermos Stainless King or Sportsman containers with model numbers SK3000, SK3020, or SK3010. If yours is affected, stop using it and contact Thermos for a free replacement. The recall remedy is straightforward, and the risk of continued use is not worth taking.