Starbucks has recalled more than 250,000 of its Bodum coffee presses in the United States and Canada after reports of lacerations. According to news reports, the recall issued by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) warns consumers that the plastic knob at the top of the French press may break when the user is pressing down on the coffee press plunger, which can expose the plunger’s metal rod and cause injury.
Details About the Recall
Starbucks reportedly sold about 230,000 of the products in the United States and about 33,200 units in Canada. As of April 24, the company has received eight reports of lacerations in the United States and one report in Canada. The recalled products were manufactured by Bodum, a well-known French coffee press maker and sold exclusively by Starbucks from November 2016 to January 2019 for about $20. Starbucks initiated a voluntary recall when it was made aware of the issue.
The co-branded coffee presses make eight cups of coffee and are partially made from recycled materials. The press’s cylindrical glass beaker, screen and plunger and kept in place by a plastic frame with a locking lid and a handle. The bottom of the press is embossed with “Bodum” and “Made in Portugal.” CPSC is advising consumers to stop using these recalled products right away and call Starbucks for store credit. The stores will not accept returns.
This is not the first recall for Bodum. In 2013, the company recalled its rose gold glass coffee presses that were sold exclusively at Starbucks, also for a laceration hazard. With those products, the glass carafe part of the French press could fall out of the metal frame and plastic base. It posed a laceration or burn hazard if the glass broke or shattered. There were 14 reports at the time of the glass carafes breaking or shattering, but no reports of injuries.
Product Liability Issues
In cases where defectively manufactured or poorly designed products cause injuries, product manufacturers can be held financially responsible. Injured victims can seek compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, and pain and suffering. If you or a loved one has been injured due to a defective product, an experienced product defect lawyer can help you gain a better understanding of your legal rights and options, and help you secure maximum compensation for your losses.
