Walmart recalls 850,000 water bottles in US after explosive lid injuries leave two blind

In a major nationwide safety alert, retail giant Walmart has announced the recall of approximately 850,000 stainless steel insulated water bottles after reports of serious injuries caused by defective lids, including two cases of permanent vision loss.

The recall, issued by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) on July 10, covers the Ozark Trail 64 oz Stainless Steel Insulated Water Bottles, a popular product sold in Walmart stores across the United States since 2017.

According to the federal agency, the product poses “serious impact and laceration hazards” when consumers attempt to open the bottle after storing perishable liquids such as juice, milk, or carbonated beverages for extended periods. Pressure buildup in such cases can cause the lid to eject forcefully, striking users in the face.

So far, Walmart has received three injury reports, two of which involved the lid striking users in the eye with such force that it caused permanent vision loss, the CPSC confirmed. The incidents prompted urgent warnings from consumer advocates, who say the risk has remained undetected for years despite the product’s widespread availability.

In a statement, Walmart said, “The health and safety of our customers is always a top priority.” The company added that it is “fully cooperating” with the CPSC and the bottle’s manufacturer to remove the product from shelves and notify consumers.

The affected bottles can be identified by model number 83-662, which appears on the product's packaging — not on the bottle itself. The design features a silver stainless steel base and a black lid.

Consumers are advised to stop using the product immediately and contact Walmart or the manufacturer for return and refund instructions.

This recall comes amid heightened scrutiny over consumer product safety in the US, with experts urging retailers to ensure better testing for pressure-sensitive containers — especially those used for perishable or carbonated liquids.