Warning: Nearly 1 million Crock-Pot cookers recalled over burn risk
The holidays might look a bit different this year, but one thing that hasn’t changed in the midst of the pandemic is a focus on food. Even if you’re not having the typical huge gathering, you can still enjoy quality family time virtually. Tap or click here to find out how to host the perfect virtual holiday party.
Whether you’re throwing together a full turkey dinner or going with an easier route, chances are you’ll be spending some time in the kitchen over the next few days. Before you do, though, there’s a massive kitchen tool recall you need to know about.
Surprisingly, this new recall isn’t related to turkey fryers, which have caused explosions and fires in years past. Instead, it’s related to a common kitchen gadget. One you may even have on your counter as we speak. Let’s take a look at what’s going on.
A massive kitchen-related recall
Were you planning to use a Crock-Pot for this year’s holiday meals? You may want to think twice about that. A massive new recall has been issued for over 900,000 Crock-Pots due to potential burn risks.
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The model that’s being recalled is the Crock-Pot 6-Quart Express Crock Multi-Cooker, a rival to the popular Instant Pot. This model can be used as a slow cooker, steamer or pressure cooker — which is where the issue comes in.
According to the recall notice, this model is being recalled due to an issue with the device’s pressurization. If the lid is not fully locked, the lid can suddenly detach while the Crock-Pot is in use, causing hot food and liquids to eject from the device. If this happens, there’s a risk of serious burns to anyone near it.
There have already been about 119 reports of lid detachment, according to the notice. Those incidences have resulted in 99 burn injuries ranging in severity from first-degree to third-degree burns.
Crock-Pot reps said, “All of our products are rigorously and routinely tested for consumer safety and are in full compliance with established industry standards. However, Crock-Pot® has identified that the lids of select 6-Quart Express Crock Multi-Cookers can detach during use if not used in accordance with the owner’s manual.
‘We’ve made two changes to enhance our consumers’ experience with this product, based on their feedback. First, we developed a new lid with updated iconography and quick-reference instructions to help avoid these common misuses. Second, we made design changes to the new lid that prohibit the unit from starting unless the lid is properly secured.”
3 Instant Pot secrets you'll use over and over
If you haven’t gotten into the Instant Pot craze, yes you’re a little late to the table, but not too late. This is not your mom’s Crock-Pot. It’s a kitchen gadget that is a slow cooker, pressure cooker, rice cooker, steamer and so much more. If only it would go to the grocery store, too.