Pressure Cooker Explosion Lawsuit | Pressure Cooker Explosion Lawyers

September 25th, 2025: Sunbeam Sued Over Defective Crock-Pot That Allegedly Caused Severe Burns

Sunbeam Products Inc. and its parent company, Newell Brands Inc., are facing a new federal lawsuit filed in Georgia after a Nevada woman claimed she was seriously burned by a defective pressure cooker.

The product in question, the Crock-Pot Express Crock Multicooker,  is alleged to have allowed users to remove the lid while still under pressure, resulting in dangerously hot contents being expelled.

According to the complaint, the plaintiff was using the pressure cooker in October 2023 under normal conditions when the lid unexpectedly released.

The plaintiff suffered serious burn injuries despite the product being marketed with safety features meant to prevent such accidents.

The lawsuit highlights that the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recalled over 900,000 similar pressure cookers in 2020 due to 119 reported incidents, including 99 confirmed cases of burns ranging from first- to third-degree.

The plaintiff  alleges that Sunbeam knew of the risks but failed to redesign the product or provide sufficient warnings, despite the availability of safer alternatives.

The plaintiff’s legal team claims the company acted with “willful and conscious disregard for safety,” seeking punitive damages for what the lawsuit describes as despicable conduct.

This is not the only legal trouble for Sunbeam, another plaintiff settled a similar burn injury case earlier this week, and the company is appealing an $8.8 million verdict in Colorado over related claims.

The case, Washington v. Sunbeam Products Inc. et al., is being heard in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia.

September 24, 2025: Plaintiff Reaches Settlement in Georgia Pressure Cooker Burn Suit Against Sunbeam and Newell

A Georgia federal lawsuit against Sunbeam Products Inc. and its parent Newell Brands Inc. over an allegedly defective Crock-Pot Oval Multi-Function Pressure Cooker is poised to end after the plaintiff reported a settlement.

Fallon Sophie Koenig told the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia that she and the defendants have reached an agreement and expect to finalize and dismiss the case within 60 days.

Terms of the settlement were not disclosed.

Koenig filed her complaint earlier this month alleging that while she was using the pressure cooker as directed in September 2023, the appliance opened under pressure, ejecting its contents and leaving her with severe burns.

The resolution comes as Sunbeam faces other pressure cooker litigation, including an $8.8 million damages verdict in a similar Colorado case that the company is currently appealing.

September 22, 2024: Pressure Cooker Burn Injury Lawsuit Filed Against Sunbeam

A Michigan woman has filed a pressure cooker lawsuit alleging that a Sunbeam Crock-Pot pressure cooker failed to operate safely, resulting in severe burn injuries.

The complaint, filed September 16, 2025, in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia, names Sunbeam Products Inc. and its parent company Newell Brands Inc. as defendants.

The lawsuit stems from a September 2023 incident in which plaintiff Fallon Sophie Koenig claims her Sunbeam Crock-Pot Oval Multi-Function Pressure Cooker allowed the lid to be removed while the unit was still pressurized.

According to the filing, the cooker appeared safe to open, but superheated contents were forcefully expelled, causing Koenig significant burn injuries that required medical treatment and resulted in ongoing physical and emotional harm.

Koenig alleges the pressure cooker was defectively designed and manufactured, contradicting Sunbeam’s marketing that its electronic models feature safety mechanisms preventing the lid from unlocking under pressure.

Her lawsuit argues that alternative, safer designs existed but were not adopted.

The claims include strict product liability, negligence, breach of warranty, and demands for punitive damages, with Koenig asserting that Sunbeam and Newell placed profits over consumer safety.

September 12, 2025:Ninja Foodi PossibleCooker Pro Steam Burn Incident May Trigger Product Liability Lawsuits and Potential Class Actions

A recent report describes a severe steam burn incident involving a Ninja Foodi PossibleCooker Pro (model MC1001Q).

According to the report, the appliance unexpectedly released hot steam, causing significant injury.

While this specific model has not been recalled, as other models produced by SharkNinja have been, the nature of the burn raises concern that its pressure or steam-release mechanisms may share flaws seen in earlier Ninja multi-cookers.

From a legal perspective, this incident could lead to product liability claims.

An injured consumer might pursue lawsuits alleging design defects, manufacturing defects, or failure to warn, seeking compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and possibly punitive damages.

If additional injuries linked to this model are reported, new litigation could emerge, similar to the lawsuits filed in 2025 over recalled Ninja Foodi pressure cookers.

Those prior cases claimed that unsafe lid or pressure-release designs allowed scalding contents or steam to escape unexpectedly.

Regulators such as the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) may also investigate if evidence suggests a systemic defect.

Such scrutiny can result in mandatory or voluntary recalls and strengthen civil claims by injured users.

In short, the MC1001Q steam burn incident (though isolated for now) creates a foundation for individual lawsuits and regulatory action if further cases come to light.

September 10th, 2025: Walmart Pressure Cooker Explosion Lawsuit 

Walmart is facing a new product liability lawsuit after a Michigan woman, Khalea Owens, suffered severe burn injuries when the lid of a Farberware 7-in-1 programmable pressure cooker allegedly exploded during use.

According to the complaint, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Arkansas, the explosion occurred in October 2022 as Owens attempted to remove the lid, believing the pressure had been released. Instead, the contents exploded, causing serious burns.

The lawsuit alleges that Walmart falsely marketed the pressure cooker as safe, including claims that the lid could not be removed while the appliance remained pressurized.

Owens argues that this design defect makes the product unreasonably dangerous and that Walmart failed to warn consumers despite knowing the safety features were ineffective.

The case joins a growing number of pressure cooker lawsuits involving brands like Instant Pot, Ninja Foodi, Crock-Pot, and others, which allege that faulty lid-lock mechanisms have caused similar explosions and injuries.

Owens brings claims of negligence, failure to warn, and breach of implied warranty.

She also asserts that Walmart failed to issue a recall despite prior incidents and widespread reports of safety failures with similar devices.

This follows major recalls in 2023 involving nearly 2 million units from Best Buy and Sensio for related lid safety issues.

August 21, 2025, Walmart Pressure Cooker Lawsuit Filed in Louisiana Federal Court

A Walmart Pressure Cooker Lawsuit has been filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Louisiana.

The case, Chelsa M. v. Walmart Inc., alleges that a defective Farberware 7-in-1 Programmable Pressure Cooker caused severe burn injuries when the lid unexpectedly exploded during use.

The plaintiff purchased the pressure cooker at a Walmart Supercenter in Lake Charles, Louisiana, on September 7, 2024. She was using the appliance when the lid “suddenly and unexpectedly” detached from the pot.

The release of built-up steam, liquid, and hot food caused significant burn injuries.

The lawsuit claims the product’s safety mechanisms failed to function as advertised, as the lid should not have been able to open until the unit was fully depressurized.

The plaintiff also alleges that Walmart and the manufacturer failed to redesign the product or issue a recall, despite reports of similar incidents.

Pressure Cooker Lawsuits have been filed nationwide against multiple retailers and manufacturers, including Walmart, Sunbeam, and Instant Brands, citing similar safety failures that allowed lids to open prematurely.

Plaintiffs in these lawsuits often claim injuries such as second- and third-degree burns, permanent scarring, and long-term medical complications.

July 31, 2025: Sunbeam Challenges $9M Reduced Verdict in Crock-Pot Pressure Cooker Lawsuit

Sunbeam Products Inc. and its parent company, Newell Brands, are seeking to overturn a $9 million judgment awarded to a Colorado woman injured by a Crock-Pot Express Multi-Cooker.

The companies have filed post-trial motions requesting a new trial or judgment as a matter of law, citing alleged legal and evidentiary errors during trial proceedings.

In December 2024, a federal jury awarded Georgina Perez a total of $55.5 million in damages after she suffered severe burns when the pressure cooker’s lid allegedly opened while still pressurized.

The jury apportioned 63% liability to Newell Brands, 27% to Sunbeam, and 10% to Perez.

However, on May 29, 2025, U.S. District Judge Philip A. Brimmer reduced the total award to approximately $9 million, applying Colorado’s statutory caps on non-economic and punitive damages.

The court found Perez did not qualify for an exemption to the cap despite the jury’s findings.

In their post-trial motions, Sunbeam and Newell argue that graphic images shown to jurors prejudiced the trial, including photos of injuries sustained by other individuals not involved in the case.

The defendants also contend that the plaintiff’s counsel improperly employed “Reptile Theory” tactics to inflame the jury and that the plaintiff failed to prove a design defect under Colorado law.

The litigation is part of a broader wave of lawsuits alleging design defects and inadequate safety features in pressure cookers.

No ruling has yet been issued on the defendants’ motions.

July 28th, 2025: Federal Judge Allows Breville Pressure Cooker Lawsuit to Move Forward

A Tennessee federal judge has ruled that a lawsuit against Breville USA over an allegedly defective pressure cooker can proceed to trial, rejecting the company’s efforts to exclude expert testimony and dismiss the case.

The lawsuit involves a Breville BPR600XL pressure cooker that allegedly exploded when opened, resulting in burn injuries to the user.

Breville attempted to discredit the plaintiff’s expert, arguing the methodology and conclusions were flawed.

However, the court found the expert’s opinions sufficiently reliable for a jury to evaluate, stating that any challenges should be addressed through cross-examination.

Key issues in the case include whether the pressure cooker’s lid could be opened while still under pressure, the adequacy of the locking pin design, and whether the product met safety standards such as UL 136.

The plaintiff alleges the lid opened with minimal resistance, contradicting what would be expected if the locking mechanism worked properly.

Breville also claimed the case was barred by the statute of repose, suggesting the cooker was sold more than ten years before the incident.

The judge rejected this, stating it’s the manufacturer’s burden to prove when the product was sold and that such factual questions are for the jury to decide.

This ruling underscores the growing litigation surrounding pressure cooker safety defects.

Multiple brands, including Ninja and Instant Pot, are facing similar lawsuits alleging that lids can be removed while contents are still under pressure, leading to severe burns and scalding injuries.

July 22nd, 2025: Ninja Pressure Cooker Recall & Litigation: What Consumers Need To Know

Over 1.8 million Ninja Foodi OP300-series multi-function pressure cookers sold nationwide (including at Costco) were recalled after regulators found the pressure-cooking lid can open during use, allowing scalding contents to erupt and cause severe burns.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports 106 burn injuries tied to the recalled units, more than 50 involving second- or third-degree burns to the face or body; 26 related lawsuits have already been filed.

Consumers should stop using the pressure-cooking function and contact SharkNinja for a free replacement lid (other functions like air frying may still be used).

The recall covers multiple OP300-series model numbers (OP300, OP301, OP302 variants, OP305, OP350CO and others) sold from 2019 through March 2025 at major retailers.

Check the model label on the cooker’s side panel to confirm if your unit is included. 

Recent pressure cooker lawsuits add fuel to the safety concerns: one complaint alleges a Ninja Foodi unit spewed boiling contents and caused second- and third-degree burns when the lid was opened after cooking on what was believed to be a non-pressurized “Sear” setting.

Plaintiffs in these and other pressure cooker lawsuits say marketed safety features do not always prevent a user from opening the cooker while it remains pressurized.

If you own a recalled Ninja pressure cooker, stop pressure cooking, request the repair kit, document any burn incidents, and speak with a pressure cooker lawyer if you or a family member were injured. 

June 25th, 2025: Safety Update: Identifying Defects Before Accidents Happen

Pressure cookers are common household kitchen appliances, but defects within these products can lead to dangerous malfunctions.

Recognizing early warning signs is crucial to prevent injuries.

Key Indicators of a Defective Pressure Cooker

1. Steam Leaks from Lid or Sides: Persistent steam escaping during cooking may indicate a compromised gasket or misaligned lid. This can prevent proper pressure buildup and pose burn risks.
2. Damaged or Worn Sealing Ring (Gasket): Cracks, warping, or loss of elasticity in the gasket can lead to pressure loss or unexpected lid openings. Manufacturers recommend annual replacement or sooner if defects are observed.
3. Blocked or Malfunctioning Pressure Release Valve: Obstructions from food debris can prevent proper steam release, increasing the risk of over-pressurization and potential explosions.
4. Inaccurate Pressure Readings: If the pressure indicator fails to rise or fluctuates abnormally, it may signal a malfunctioning pressure regulator, compromising cooking safety.
5. Unusual Noises or Smells: Loud hissing, rattling, or burnt odors during operation can indicate internal issues, such as overheating or component failure.

Maintenance Tips to Prevent Malfunctions Due to Defects

• Regular Cleaning: After each use, clean the lid, gasket, and valves to prevent residue buildup.
• Routine Inspections: Monthly checks for wear and tear on seals and valves can catch issues early.
• Proper Storage: Store the cooker with the lid off or inverted to prevent gasket compression and odor retention.

Recent Safety Concerns

Millions of pressure cookers have been recalled in recent years.

Earlier this month, SharkNinja recalled almost 2 million pressure cookers after more than 100 burn injuries were reported.

In 2023, nearly 1 million Insignia Multi-Function Pressure Cookers were recalled due to incorrect volume markings, leading to overfilling and burn hazards.

These incidents have resulted from regular use of common kitchen appliances, and victims of these defective pressure cookers have begun filing lawsuits to recover compensation for their injuries.

Consumers who were burned or injured by defective pressure cookers may be eligible to seek justice and compensation.

Our lawyers are actively reviewing claims involving burn injuries, especially in cases where the pressure cooker opened unexpectedly or lacked critical safety mechanisms.

Reach out today for a free consultation, or use the chat feature on this page to find out if you qualify for a pressure cooker lawsuit instantly.

June 5th, 2025: Judge Reduces $55.5M Pressure Cooker Verdict, Upholds $9.1M Award

A federal judge has reduced the $55.5 million jury verdict awarded to Georgina Perez in her lawsuit against Sunbeam Products and Newell Brands after a Crock-Pot Express exploded, causing severe burn injuries.

On May 29, Judge Philip Brimmer ruled that Colorado’s statutory cap on noneconomic damages was applicable, which limited Perez’s total recovery to $9.1 million.

The reduction came after post-trial motions questioning whether Perez’s injuries met the threshold for increased damages.

Judge Brimmer denied her request to impose a higher cap, determining that her injuries, while serious, did not meet the criteria for the exception.

The final judgment orders Sunbeam to pay $3.36 million and Newell Brands to pay $5.75 million, covering both actual and punitive damages along with interest.

The outcome suggests that damage caps may influence pressure cooker injury claims, even in instances involving severe physical harm.

Perez’s case is just one of the hundreds of similar lawsuits filed nationwide against companies like Crock-Pot, Instant Pot, and Ninja Foodi.

June 3rd, 2025: SharkNinja Recalls 1.8 Million Pressure Cookers After Over 100 Burn Injuries Reported

SharkNinja is recalling about 1.8 million pressure cookers after receiving at least 106 reports of burn injuries, which include over 50 second- or third-degree burns to the face and body.

The recall affects several models in the Ninja Foodi OP300 Series due to a defect that permits the lid to open during use, releasing hot contents and potentially causing injuries.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has confirmed that over 26 lawsuits have been filed concerning the defect.

Affected models include OP300, OP301, OP301A, OP302, OP302BRN, OP302HCN, OP302HAQ, OP302HW, OP302HB, OP305, OP305CO, and OP350CO, as well as any replacements for OP300-series pressure lids.

The cookers were sold at major retailers, including Walmart, Costco, Sam’s Club, Amazon, and Target, as well as through SharkNinja’s website.

Almost 185,000 units were sold in Canada.

Consumers should stop using the pressure-cooking function immediately.

May 23, 2025: Most Common Defects Leading to Explosions and Injuries

Exploding pressure cookers continue to be the center of product liability lawsuits nationwide, with plaintiffs citing severe burns, permanent scarring, and emotional trauma caused by device malfunctions.

At the center of many claims are specific, recurring design and manufacturing defects.

1. Defective Pressure Release Valves

The pressure release valve (also called a safety valve or steam valve) is a critical safety feature designed to release excess steam when internal pressure reaches a certain threshold.

In many defective units, these valves are either poorly engineered, become clogged, or simply fail to activate.

When this happens, the pressure inside the cooker builds beyond safe levels, turning the device into a sealed bomb.

Consumers have reported incidents where pressure cookers exploded without warning during or after cooking.

Scalding liquid, steam, and food fragments are ejected forcefully, often striking users in the face, chest, and hands.

In some lawsuits, victims have suffered second- and third-degree burns requiring skin grafts and long-term care.

Plaintiffs allege that manufacturers either ignored known issues with valve failures or failed to issue recalls.

2. Faulty Lid-Lock Mechanisms

A properly functioning lid-lock system should prevent a user from opening the pressure cooker while internal pressure remains dangerously high.

In numerous defective models, the lid-lock either fails to engage, falsely indicates that pressure has been released, or can be forcibly opened.

The result is catastrophic: the sudden release of pressure propels the lid off or causes contents to erupt outward.

Lawsuits have described incidents where users believed the cooker had depressurized based on manufacturer indicators, only for the unit to violently explode upon opening.

Some victims were sprayed with boiling liquids; others were injured by flying lids or metal shards.

Faulty lid-locks form the basis for many product liability claims, particularly when manufacturers included unreliable “safe to open” indicators.

3. Inadequate Gasket Seal Integrity

The rubber gasket inside the lid is intended to create an airtight seal that maintains pressure.

Over time—or due to poor manufacturing—these gaskets can degrade, loosen, or become misaligned.

When the seal breaks during cooking, it can cause sudden depressurization, splatter, or even trigger explosive force if combined with valve or vent blockages.

Victims have described hearing hissing sounds moments before a sudden burst of hot steam and food shot from the seams or vent area.

The result is often facial burns, eye injuries, and widespread kitchen damage.

Manufacturers are being sued for using subpar gasket materials and failing to issue adequate maintenance instructions or warnings about replacement intervals.

TorHoerman Law is actively accepting clients who have suffered injuries due to defective and dangerous pressure cookers. 

Reach out for more information and a free case evaluation. 

The Pressure Cooker Lawsuit is ongoing. 

Pressure cooker lawsuits are being filed against a range of companies—including manufacturers, retailers, and distributors—over claims that faulty lid locks are causing serious injuries.

These cases often involve pressure cookers that can be opened while still pressurized, leading to explosions of hot food or steam.

In one recent lawsuit filed in Florida, a woman is suing both the pressure cooker manufacturer and Amazon, where she bought the product.

She claims the lid opened while the cooker was still pressurized, causing severe burns to her child.

The cooker was advertised as having multiple safety features, but the suit says those features failed.

The lawsuit accuses both Amazon and the manufacturer of negligence and selling a defective product, and seeks over $75,000 in damages.

Many of these lawsuits argue that multiple companies, not just the maker, can be held responsible when pressure cookers malfunction and cause harm.

If you’ve been injured by a defective pressure cooker, contact TorHoerman Law today. 

Use our free chatbot for a free case evaluation and find out if you qualify for legal action instantly. 

Experiencing an Instant Pot explosion can be alarming and potentially dangerous.

Here’s a comprehensive guide on immediate actions to take, medical considerations, and legal steps to protect your health and rights.

Immediate Actions After an Instant Pot Explosion

Ensure Safety: Turn off and unplug the Instant Pot to prevent further hazards. If safe, move away from the appliance to avoid exposure to hot contents or steam.​

Attend to Injuries: For burns, rinse the affected area with cool (not cold) water. Avoid applying ice or ointments. Seek medical attention promptly, especially for severe burns.​

Document the Incident:

• Photograph injuries, the damaged Instant Pot, and the surrounding area.​
• Retain the appliance and all components as evidence.​
• Keep receipts, packaging, and any communication with the manufacturer.

Medical Considerations

Instant Pot explosions can result in serious injuries, including

• First to third-degree burns
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Eye injuries from hot liquids
• Emotional trauma

It’s crucial to follow up with healthcare providers for ongoing treatment and to document all medical visits and expenses.

Legal Steps and Considerations

If you’ve been injured due to an Instant Pot explosion, you may be eligible for compensation. Here’s what you need to know:​

• Potential Compensation: Medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.​

Evidence Collection:

• Medical records detailing injuries and treatments.​
• Photographs of injuries and the damaged appliance.
• Proof of purchase and any correspondence with the manufacturer.

Preventative Measures

To minimize the risk of future incidents:

• Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Always adhere to the user manual instructions.​
• Regular Maintenance: Inspect the sealing ring, pressure release valve, and other components for wear or damage.
• Proper Usage: Avoid overfilling the pot and ensure the lid is securely locked before operation.​
• Stay Informed: Register your appliance with the manufacturer to receive recall notices and safety updates.

If your pressure cooker exploded and caused substantial burn injuries or other serious injuries, you may be eligible to file a Pressure Cooker Lawsuit and secure financial compensation for your injuries and damages.

Use our free chatbot for a free case evaluation and find out if you qualify for legal action instantly. 

You can also contact TorHoerman Law for a free, no-obligation case consultation.

Best Buy Faces Lawsuit Over Exploding Insignia Pressure Cooker 

Best Buy is facing a lawsuit filed by a Minnesota woman who suffered severe burn injuries when the lid of an Insignia pressure cooker was removed while still under pressure, despite the manufacturer’s claims of advanced safety features.

The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota on February 5, alleges that the plaintiff was severely burned in September 2022 after the pressure cooker exploded upon her opening the lid, releasing scalding contents.

The complaint points to the manufacturer’s failure to ensure that safety mechanisms, designed to prevent such accidents, functioned properly.

Despite marketing efforts that promoted modern electronic pressure cookers like the Insignia as safer than traditional stovetop models, Rosilla’s case argues that Best Buy continued to sell defective pressure cookers even after receiving multiple reports of similar accidents.

The recall, initiated only in October 2023, affected over 900,000 units, yet by then, at least 31 incidents had already been reported, including 17 burn injuries, some involving severe second-degree burns.

If your pressure cooker exploded and caused substantial burn injuries or other serious injuries, you may be eligible to file a Pressure Cooker Lawsuit and secure financial compensation for your injuries and damages.

Use our free chatbot for a free case evaluation and find out if you qualify for legal action instantly. 

You can also contact TorHoerman Law for a free, no-obligation case consultation.

A lawsuit filed against Sunbeam Products, Inc. and Newell Brands, Inc. claims that a user suffered severe burn injuries from a defective Crock-Pot pressure cooker.

The plaintiff alleges that, in January 2022, he was able to open the lid while the cooker was pressurized, causing scalding contents to explode and injure him.

Filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Montana on January 13, the lawsuit argues the Crock-Pot’s safety mechanisms failed, directly contradicting the manufacturer’s claims that their designs prevent lid removal while pressurized.

The plaintiff asserts the product was defectively designed and marketed, exposing consumers to significant harm.

The case adds to a growing number of pressure cooker lawsuits against manufacturers like Sunbeam, Instant Pot, and Ninja Foodi, all alleging similar safety failures, with recalls of nearly 2 million pressure cookers being issued in recent years due to defective lid safety mechanisms.

If your pressure cooker exploded and caused substantial burn injuries or other serious injuries, you may be eligible to file a Pressure Cooker Lawsuit and secure financial compensation for your injuries and damages.

Use our free chatbot for a free case evaluation and find out if you qualify for legal action instantly. 

You can also contact TorHoerman Law for a free, no-obligation case consultation.