In a heartfelt effort to prioritize consumer safety, SharkNinja Technologies, the creators of the beloved Ninja Foodi kitchen appliances, are addressing a serious concern with their pressure cookers to protect families and communities. Following reports of a defect that has sadly caused severe burn injuries, including second- and third-degree burns, a compassionate recall of over 1.8 million units sold under the Ninja and American Standard brands has been initiated.
The issue, which allows the pressure cookers to open while still pressurized, can result in hot food and steam being released, posing a significant risk. This recall reflects a deep commitment to swiftly rectify the problem, ensuring the safety and well-being of all who trust these products in their homes.
As of May 2025, over 100 incidents have been reported, with more than 50 cases of severe burns. This massive recall has also triggered 26 lawsuits, with consumers seeking compensation for medical expenses, emotional distress, and pain caused by the defect. In this article, we’ll break down the details of this serious issue, how it affects consumers, and what steps you need to take if you own one of the affected pressure cookers.
SharkNinja Faces Major Lawsuit
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Affected | Ninja Foodi Pressure Cookers (OP300 Series) |
| Number of Units Recalled | 1.8 million units (U.S.) and 184,240 units (Canada) |
| Defect | Faulty lid mechanism allowing the cooker to open under pressure |
| Hazard | Burn injuries, including second- and third-degree burns |
| Lawsuits Filed | Over 26 lawsuits as of June 2025 |
| Recall Date | May 2025 |
| Consumer Action | Stop using pressure-cooking function, contact SharkNinja for repairs |
| Models Affected | OP300, OP301, OP302, OP305, OP350CO, and other variants |
| Retailers | Walmart, Costco, Sam’s Club, Target, and Amazon |
| Manufacturer | SharkNinja Technologies, North Carolina |
| Recall Link | CPSC Recall Notice |
The recall of Ninja Foodi Pressure Cookers serves as a heartfelt reminder of our shared responsibility to prioritize safety, ensuring that every home remains a sanctuary of care and comfort. SharkNinja is acting with compassion and urgency to address this concern, offering free lid replacements to protect those who cherish their products. We warmly encourage consumers to take swift, caring steps: pause using the pressure-cooking function, reach out to SharkNinja for a replacement lid, and stay vigilant for any signs of injury. Together, we can foster a safer, more nurturing environment for all.
SharkNinja’s proactive approach to this recall is commendable, but the company’s reputation will undoubtedly be impacted by these incidents. Moving forward, product safety should be a primary concern for all manufacturers, especially when it comes to appliances that deal with high pressure and heat.
What Went Wrong with the Ninja Foodi Pressure Cookers?
SharkNinja’s Ninja Foodi Pressure Cookers have become cherished companions in kitchens across the U.S. and Canada, celebrated for their versatility in pressure cooking, air frying, and baking, bringing joy and convenience to countless households. However, a concern has emerged with a faulty lid mechanism in certain models, which may allow the lid to open while still pressurized, posing a risk to the safety that these appliances are designed to uphold.
This issue, which affects the locking lid meant to protect users until pressure is safely released, has prompted a compassionate response to ensure the well-being of all who rely on these beloved devices, fostering trust and care in every home.
When the lid opens under pressure, scalding hot steam and food are violently ejected, causing severe burns to anyone in the immediate vicinity. This defect has resulted in second- and third-degree burns for consumers, and the company has received over 100 reports of incidents. SharkNinja has initiated a recall of approximately 1.8 million units to address the safety concern, but the issue has sparked significant legal actions.
Why Is This a Big Deal?
Pressure cookers are used by millions of people in their daily cooking routines. Their ability to cook food quickly and efficiently makes them indispensable in many households. However, the fact that these units have failed to meet the most basic safety standards—especially in relation to pressure release mechanisms—puts consumers at risk of severe injuries. The Ninja Foodi OP300 Series models are designed to be safe, but the defect is an example of how even well-known brands can have manufacturing flaws that lead to catastrophic results.
What Should Consumers Do?
1. Stop Using the Affected Pressure Cookers
If you own one of the affected Ninja Foodi Pressure Cookers, the first thing you need to do is discontinue use of the pressure-cooking function immediately. While other functions, such as air frying, are still safe to use, it is crucial to stop using the cooker for pressure cooking until the issue has been addressed.
2. Check If Your Unit Is Affected
To determine if your Ninja Foodi Pressure Cooker is part of the recall, you need to check the model number and serial number on the bottom of the unit. The affected models include the OP300, OP301, OP302, OP305, and OP350CO. You can visit the CPSC Recall Notice or call SharkNinja customer service for confirmation.
3. Contact SharkNinja for a Free Replacement Lid
SharkNinja is offering free replacement lids to consumers with affected units. The company is working with authorized repair centers to ensure the faulty lids are replaced. SharkNinja customer service can be reached at 800-889-0129, and you can also visit their website for detailed instructions on how to claim your replacement lid.
4. Monitor for Symptoms of Burns
If you or someone you know has been injured by one of the faulty pressure cookers, it is important to seek immediate medical care. Second- and third-degree burns require professional treatment, and failure to treat the injuries properly could result in permanent scarring or infection. Keep documentation of your injuries for any potential legal action or insurance claims.
The History of Pressure Cooker Recalls and Safety Concerns
Pressure cookers have been around for over 80 years, and while they are known for their speed and efficiency, they’ve also been associated with certain risks. In fact, pressure cooker recalls have occurred on several occasions due to similar design defects or safety failures. This includes issues with improper sealing, malfunctioning pressure release valves, and faulty locking mechanisms.
A high-profile example of a pressure cooker recall occurred in 2018, when Instant Pot issued a recall for one of its models due to a potential lid detachment issue. Similarly, Presto had to recall several models over the years for burn risks associated with defects in their pressure release valves. These recalls underscore how even the most reputable brands can face safety challenges with products that deal with high heat and pressure.
What SharkNinja is Doing to Address the Issue
Since the recall announcement in May 2025, SharkNinja Technologies has taken proactive steps to address the defect and mitigate the damage caused by this recall. The company has issued a public apology, offering full cooperation with the CPSC and the U.S. Consumer Protection Bureau. SharkNinja has also promised to improve the safety testing of its products going forward and to implement more rigorous checks to prevent similar incidents from occurring.
SharkNinja is actively communicating with retail partners to pull the affected units off shelves and prevent further sales of the defective models. Additionally, the company has launched a comprehensive consumer outreach campaign, contacting affected buyers and offering replacements for their defective lids. Visit CPSC Recall Notice for more details.
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Pressure Cooker Safety Tips for Consumers
While SharkNinja works to address the recall, it’s essential for consumers to follow basic pressure cooker safety tips:
- Always Check the Seal: Before using your pressure cooker, make sure the seal is intact and that the lid is properly locked. Never attempt to open the lid while the unit is pressurized.
- Do Not Force the Lid Open: If the lid does not open easily, do not try to force it. Wait for the pressure to release naturally.
- Use the Pressure Release Valve: Make sure to use the pressure release valve to release steam before opening the lid.
- Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Always refer to the manufacturer’s user manual for specific safety instructions and guidelines.
FAQs
1. How can I tell if my Ninja Foodi pressure cooker is part of the recall?
Check the model number and serial number on the bottom of the unit. The affected models include OP300, OP301, OP302, and others. You can also use the CPSC recall lookup tool for verification.
2. Is the pressure-cooking function the only issue?
Yes, the defect affects the pressure-cooking function only. The other functions, such as air frying, are still safe to use.
3. How long will it take to get the replacement lid?
Once you contact SharkNinja, you will be guided on how to receive the free replacement lid. The process generally takes a few weeks depending on your location.
4. What if I’ve already been injured?
If you have suffered an injury, it’s essential to seek medical care immediately. You should also contact an attorney to discuss potential legal action.
5. What will the recall cover?
The recall covers the replacement of faulty lids. SharkNinja is offering free repairs for affected units, which should eliminate the burn risk.
