Aldi has recalled a number of pressure cooker models due to potential safety issues that pose a risk of serious injury or death. The recalled models include both electric and stovetop pressure cookers sold under Aldi’s house brands, as well as some name-brand pressure cookers sold at Aldi stores.
Why did Aldi recall these pressure cookers?
The recall was issued due to concerns that the pressure cookers can allow pressure to build too high, causing the lids to suddenly pop off and pose an injury hazard. This can happen if the pressure release valves or steam vents get blocked while cooking, preventing the safe release of pressure. Severe burns and other injuries can result if hot contents are forcefully ejected.
When was the Aldi pressure cooker recall issued?
Aldi first announced a voluntary recall of several pressure cooker models in November 2019. Additional models were added to the recall in February 2020 and again in November 2020 as more potentially dangerous pressure cookers were identified.
Which brands of pressure cookers were recalled at Aldi?
The recall covers pressure cookers sold under the following Aldi brand names:
- Crock-Pot
- Ambiano
- Turbochef
It also includes certain models of Name Brand pressure cookers sold at Aldi, such as:
- Fagor
- Gourmia
- Lux
What specific models and sizes were recalled?
The recall covers a wide range of different pressure cooker models and sizes, including:
Crock-Pot Electric Pressure Cookers
- 6-Quart Express Crock Multi-Cookers
- 8-Quart Express Crock Multi-Cookers
Ambiano Electric Pressure Cookers
- 4-Quart
- 6-Quart
- 8-Quart
Turbochef Electric Pressure Cookers
- 16-Quart
- 8-Quart
Fagor Electric Pressure Cookers
- 3-Quart
- 6-Quart
Gourmia Electric Pressure Cookers
- 6-Quart
- 8-Quart
An 8-Quart Power Pressure Cooker XL was also recalled.
The recall also includes the following stovetop pressure cooker models:
- 4-Quart Lux Pressure Cookers
- 6-Quart Lux Pressure Cookers
- 8-Quart Lux Pressure Cookers
What date codes are included in the recall?
The recall covers units with the following date codes printed on the underside of the electrical base or on the bottom of the stovetop units:
- 04/19 through 11/20
- 08/20 through 11/20
- 11/20
Not all units within these date ranges are affected, but consumers should check their pressure cooker’s date code to see if it falls within the recalled range.
What hazards are associated with the recalled pressure cookers?
The pressure cookers were recalled due to the serious injury hazard posed if pressure is allowed to build too high. Potential hazards include:
- The pressure cooker lid suddenly popping off due to excessive pressure buildup.
- Contents being forcefully ejected out of the unit.
- Risk of serious burns from hot contents spraying out.
- Impact injuries if the lid strikes someone.
These dangerous incidents can occur if the pressure release valves or vents become blocked before pressure is properly released. The results can be devastating and lead to severe injuries requiring medical treatment.
Have there been any reported injuries?
Yes, multiple injuries have been reported that required medical attention. As of November 2020, there were 118 reported incidents related to the recalled Aldi pressure cookers. These reports included:
- 99 burn injuries
- 10 impact injuries
- 9 other injuries
Reported injuries reflect cases requiring medical attention or hospitalization. The number does not include all minor incidents or near misses.
What should I do if I have a recalled pressure cooker?
If you own any of the pressure cookers included in the recall, you should immediately stop using it. The recalled units pose a serious safety risk that could result in severe personal injury or property damage.
You should contact Aldi right away to return the pressure cooker for a full refund. You can bring the unit (without the packaging) to any Aldi store. Or call Aldi at 844-955-2560 for instructions on receiving a prepaid shipping box to return the pressure cooker.
Consumers can contact Aldi for additional information on the recall and to learn if their specific pressure cooker model and date code is affected.
Are other retailers selling these recalled pressure cookers?
Yes, the recall involves pressure cooker models sold at various retailers, not just at Aldi grocery locations. Other retailers that carried these models include:
- Walmart
- Target
- Amazon
- Home Depot
- Wayfair
- Bed Bath and Beyond
Consumers who purchased the recalled pressure cookers from other retailers should check with that retailer for information on how to return the product for a refund.
Can I request a replacement instead of a refund?
Unfortunately, replacements are not being offered as part of this recall. Aldi and other retailers are only providing refunds. This is because all units of the recalled models could potentially have defects that lead to excessive pressure buildup.
After returning the pressure cooker, consumers can purchase a different model if they would still like a replacement. Care should be taken to avoid buying any recalled pressure cookers again.
Who should I contact for more details on the recall?
To learn more about the recall and determine if you own an affected model, contact the following:
- Aldi: Visit www.aldi.us or call 844-955-2560
- Crock-Pot: Visit www.crockpotrecall.com or call 877-339-2534
- Other retailers: Check their website or call customer service for recall details
Conclusion
Aldi has recalled a wide range of pressure cookers due to potential safety hazards that can cause the lid to pop off under pressure and spray out hot contents. Numerous major injuries requiring medical care have been reported. All owners of the recalled models should immediately stop using them and return them for a full refund.
Affected models include various sizes of electric and stovetop pressure cookers sold under the Crock-Pot, Ambiano, Turbochef and other brands. Units with date codes from 04/19 through 11/20 could be impacted. Anyone with questions or concerns can contact Aldi or the specific brand company for more details on the recall.