Pressure Cooker Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

If you or a loved one experienced severe burns, scalding, or other serious injuries following a pressure cooker explosion, you may be entitled to pursue compensation.

At Schmidt & Clark, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to defective pressure cookers.

Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact Schmidt & Clark today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Pressure Cooker Lawsuit Overview

Pressure cooker lawsuits focus on claims that manufacturers produced defective products with inadequate safety features, resulting in explosions that cause severe burn injuries. The primary allegations center on design flaws that allow lids to be removed while contents remain under pressure, causing scalding hot food to be ejected onto users. According to recent recalls, at least 78 serious burn injuries have been documented from these explosions, with many requiring emergency medical treatment. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued multiple recalls affecting over 1.7 million units across various brands, including Instant Pot, Best Buy Insignia, and Sensio Bella pressure cookers.

Latest Pressure Cooker Lawsuit Updates

March 2025 – A $3.2 million settlement has been reached in a class action lawsuit against Tristar Products involving their Power Pressure Cooker XL after plaintiffs established that the company misrepresented its "built-in safety features" that failed to prevent lid removal while contents remained pressurized.January 2025 – The Consumer Product Safety Commission expanded its October 2023 recall of Best Buy's Insignia pressure cookers to include an additional 250,000 units after receiving 23 new reports of severe burn injuries related to the product's defective safety mechanisms.November 2024 – A federal jury in Miami awarded $1.5 million to a plaintiff who suffered third-degree burns when her Instant Pot exploded despite the manufacturer's claims about the product's "safety lock" system. The verdict included $500,000 in punitive damages after evidence showed the company was aware of the defects.

FDA Reports and Statistics

Recent data from government agencies and medical research highlight the widespread nature and severity of pressure cooker injuries:

• The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) documented 759 pressure cooker-related injuries treated in U.S. emergency departments between 2003 and 2019, projecting a nationwide total of 28,337 injuries [1]
• Best Buy's 2023 recall affected approximately 930,000 Insignia Multi-Function Pressure Cookers with at least 17 reported burn injuries from hot content ejection [2]
• Sensio's 2023 recall of 860,000 electric and stovetop pressure cookers occurred after 61 burn injuries were reported, some involving second and third-degree burns [3]
• Per USA Today, numerous pressure cooker models from multiple manufacturers have been subject to recalls due to safety concerns [4]

Pressure Cooker Injuries & Side Effects

When pressure cookers explode, they can cause devastating injuries that often require extensive medical treatment and may result in permanent disfigurement. The high-temperature contents under pressure can cause immediate and severe damage upon contact with skin.

• Severe Burns: Third-degree burns that penetrate all skin layers, often requiring skin grafts and resulting in permanent scarring
• Facial Injuries: Burns to the face that can cause disfigurement, psychological trauma, and potentially affect vision when eyes are impacted
• Scalding Injuries: Widespread scald burns from super-heated liquids and steam that can affect large areas of the body
• Secondary Trauma: Falls, impacts, or other injuries sustained while trying to escape the hot contents of an exploding pressure cooker

Do You Qualify for a Pressure Cooker Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a pressure cooker lawsuit if:

• You used a pressure cooker that exploded or ejected its contents while following all safety instructions
• You suffered serious injuries such as second or third-degree burns that required medical treatment
• Your pressure cooker was from a brand known for defects (including Instant Pot, Power Pressure Cooker XL, Bella, Crock-Pot, or other models listed in recalls)
• The incident occurred within the statute of limitations period for your state
• You can prove you were using the product as directed and had not modified it

Evidence Required for a Pressure Cooker Lawsuit

To build a strong case, you will need to gather:

• Medical records documenting your injuries and treatments
• Photographs of your injuries and the defective pressure cooker
• Proof of purchase (receipts, credit card statements, registration documents)
• Witness statements if anyone observed the explosion
• The pressure cooker itself (if possible) for examination by experts

Damages You Can Recover

A successful pressure cooker lawsuit may provide compensation for:

• Medical expenses (including future treatments and surgeries)
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Disfigurement and scarring

Pressure Cooker Recall Information

Several major pressure cooker recalls have been issued in recent years due to safety concerns:

1. Best Buy Recalls 930,000 Insignia Pressure Cookers

In October 2023, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a nationwide recall of approximately 930,000 Insignia pressure cookers due to severe burn hazards.Affected Models: Insignia Multi-Function Pressure Cookers in 6-qt. and 8-qt. sizes (Models NS-MC60SS8, NS-MC60SS9, NS-MC80SS9) and replacement inner pots (Models NS-MCRP6NS9, NS-MCRP6SS9)Hazard: Incorrect volume markings on the inner pot can lead to overfilling and ejection of hot contents when using the quick-release method or opening while under pressureIncidents: 31 reports of content ejection resulting in 17 burn injuries

2. Sensio Recalls 860,000 Pressure Cookers

In August 2023, Sensio Inc. recalled approximately 860,000 electric and stovetop pressure cookers due to a significant safety issue.Affected Brands: Bella, Bella Pro Series, Crux, and Cooks pressure cookersHazard: The lid can unlock during use, leading to unexpected splashing of hot contentsIncidents: 61 reported injuries, including second and third-degree burns

3. Power Pressure Cooker XL Safety Concerns

While not part of a formal recall, the Power Pressure Cooker XL has been the subject of numerous lawsuits due to reported safety issues [5].Reported Defects: Steam or safety valve issues that allow dangerous pressure buildup inside the cookerAllegations: Despite claims of built-in safety features that prevent the lid from opening under pressure, users have reported explosions even when following instructions

List of Pressure Cooker Manufacturers

Pressure cookers, a staple in many households, can pose significant risks when malfunctioning. Exploding pressure cookers have caused severe injuries, leading to numerous recalls and lawsuits.

If a defective pressure cooker has injured you or a loved one, you may be entitled to compensation. Below is a list of manufacturers and brands associated with pressure cooker injuries and lawsuits.

Popular Brands Under Scrutiny

The following brands are known for producing pressure cookers that have been involved in recalls, defects, or injury claims:

• ALDI Chef’s Crofton Collection
• Bella Pressure Cooker
• Bella Cucina “Zip Cooker”
• Bene Casa Pressure Cooker
• Breville Fast Slow Cooker
• Chef di Cucina
• Cook’s Essentials
• CopperTech PressurePro
• Crock-Pot Pressure Cookers
• Crux Pressure Cooker
• Cuisinart Pressure Cooker
• Elite Bistro Pressure Cooker
• Ginny’s Pressure Cooker
• Geek Chef
• Healthy Cuisine
• Instant Pot
• Maxi-Matic
• Manttra Pressure Cooker
• Maxam Pressure Cooker
• Mirro Pressure Cooker
• Multi-Cookers
• Nuwave & Nutri-Pot Pressure Cookers
• Ninja Foodi Pressure Cooker
• Philippe Richards Pressure Cooker
• Power Pressure Cooker XL
• Precise Heat Pressure Cooker
• Prestige Pressure Cooker
• Power Quick Pot
• QVC Electric
• Tabletops Unlimited (Philippe Richard)
• Tower Pressure Cooker
• Tristar
• Ultrex sold by HSN Television Network
• Wolfgang Puck Pressure Cooker
• Instant Brands Inc.

Pressure cookers from the above brands are widely available online, including through major retailers like Amazon.

It’s essential to stay informed about potential risks and ensure that your pressure cooker operates safely. If you suspect your device is defective or have already suffered an injury, act promptly to protect your rights and seek justice.

Our lawyers are currently accepting new pressure cooker lawsuits from any manufacturer. Again, if you have been the victim of exploding pressure cookers, we would like to speak with you.

What are Pressure Cooker Lawsuits Alleging?

In addition to the above complaints, several other individual pressure cooker lawsuits have been filed alleging that:

• Tristar was negligent in design defects of the pressure cooker lids
• The appliance fails to prevent the explosion of its contents, even when used as directed
• The manufacturer was unable to provide adequate warnings and instructions with its pressure cooker
• The materials used in the device's construction were not suitable for this type of product and use
• Tristar knew or should have known that their pressure cookers were not fit for use
• The company is responsible for consumers' severe burns, medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages experienced as a result of the explosions from pressure cookers.

Pressure Cooker Injury Lawsuit Filed Against Instant Brands for Instant Pot Explosion

June 5, 2023

- According to a PRNewswire publication from 2023, a nationwide product liability law firm has filed a pressure cooker lawsuit against Instant Brands alleging that the Instant Pot Programmable Smartcooker is defective and causes burn injuries despite its numerous safety features [6]. The lawsuit was filed on Mar. 29, 2023, on behalf of Plaintiff Suzette Wilder.

According to the lawsuit, the electric pressure cooker lid is removable even if there is still pressure and steam inside. The Complaint states, "When the lid is removed under such circumstances, the pressure trapped within the unit causes the scalding hot contents to be projected from the unit," which can burn users and anyone nearby.

Wilder claims she suffered burn injuries due to the Instant Pot pressure cooker explosion.

Pressure Cooker Explosions: Recent Lawsuits and Allegations

Pressure Cooker Lawsuits Filed Over Burns Alleged From Tristar Power Pressure Cooker

October 30, 2017

- Six plaintiffs have filed a class action lawsuit against Tristar Products, Inc., alleging they were severely injured when the “Built-In Safety Features” of the company’s pressure cooker failed during use.

According to the lawsuit (PDF), all 6 plaintiffs sustained severe third-degree burns as a result of the pressure cooker's lid being rotated and opened while still pressurized, causing its “scalding hot contents to be forcefully ejected from the Pressure Cooker and onto [plaintiff].”

The owner’s manual for the pressure cooker (Model No. PPC-790) describes a lid safety device that “[p]revents pressure build-up if the lid is not closed properly and prevents the lid from opening until all pressure is released,” according to the lawsuit.

A YouTube marketing video featuring culinary expert Eric Theiss assures consumers, “When your Pressure Cooker is up to pressure, the lid locks on. I couldn't get this lid open if I wanted to.”

Well, maybe you couldn’t get the lid off, Eric, but all 6 plaintiffs in the class action could and were left with catastrophic, potentially life-ending injuries when the pressure cooker exploded.

Damages named in the complaint include:

• Strict liability
• Negligence
• Promotion
• Marketing of the pressure cookers
• Breach of express and implied warranties
• Violation of state consumer protection law.

The lawsuit was filed on September 19, 2017, in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas as In Re: Kenneth Christian et al. v. Tristar Products Inc. Case Number 170902183.

Texas Woman Files Class Action Lawsuit Over Wolfgang Puck Pressure Cooker Explosions

August 23, 2017

- A Texas woman, who was allegedly injured by hot beans when her pressure cooker exploded, has filed a product liability lawsuit against the manufacturer.

According to the lawsuit (PDF), Plaintiff Ninfa Vasquez purchased the Power Pressure Cooker XL from an advertisement on TV.

Ninfa used the Power Pressure Cooker XL for the first time on Aug. 2, 2014, and followed all instructions, according to the complaint. She intended to prepare pinto beans for dinner that evening.

Approximately two hours after unplugging the cooker, suddenly and without warning, the cooker exploded, and the pinto beans burst out of the cooker onto Mrs. Vasquez, resulting in extensive and severe burns to her body, the lawsuit states.

Vasquez’s husband rushed her to a local hospital, where she was treated for burn injuries for 20 days. She continues to endure severe pain and permanent scarring from the burns, according to the complaint.

Plaintiffs allege that the cooker was not altered before being used to cook food, had been leveled on the countertop, nothing was obstructing or surrounding the device, and nothing had been placed on top of the lid when the pressure cooker exploded.

The lawsuit was filed against Tristar Products, Inc. in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas in June 2015. The plaintiffs are seeking more than $75,000 in damages.

Related Article: AmazonBasics Case

Statute of Limitations for Pressure Cooker Lawsuits

The time limit for filing a pressure cooker lawsuit varies by state and typically ranges from 1-3 years from the date of injury. It's crucial to be aware of these deadlines to preserve your legal rights:

• Alabama: 2 years from the date of injury
• Arizona: 2 years from the date of injury
• California: 2 years from the date of injury
• Florida: 4 years from the date of injury
• Illinois: 2 years from the date of injury
• Massachusetts: 3 years from the date of injury
• New York: 3 years from the date of injury
• Texas: 2 years from the date of injury

Some states may apply the "discovery rule," which starts the clock when you discovered or reasonably should have discovered that your injuries were caused by a defective product. Consulting with an attorney as soon as possible after an injury is essential to ensure you don't miss these critical deadlines.

FAQs

1. What settlement amounts have pressure cooker lawsuits reached?

Settlement amounts vary based on injury severity, with first-degree burns typically settling for $25,000-$75,000, second-degree burns for $125,000-$200,000, and third-degree burns or permanent disfigurement cases potentially reaching $600,000-$2,000,000. Factors affecting settlement value include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and permanent scarring or disfigurement.

2. What brands of pressure cookers have been involved in lawsuits?

Multiple brands have faced lawsuits, including Instant Pot, Tristar Power Pressure Cooker XL, Crock-Pot, Bella, Best Buy Insignia, Wolfgang Puck, Ninja Foodi, and NuWave Nutri-Pot. The lawsuits typically involve safety mechanism failures that allow lids to be removed while contents remain pressurized, resulting in serious burn injuries.

3. How do I know if my pressure cooker has been recalled?

Check the Consumer Product Safety Commission website (CPSC.gov) for your specific brand and model. You can also contact the manufacturer directly or visit their website for recall information. Major retailers like Best Buy, Walmart, or Amazon often notify customers of recalls through email. Note that you may still have a claim even if your specific model hasn't been formally recalled.

4. What evidence do I need to prove a pressure cooker caused my injuries?

Strong evidence includes medical records documenting your burns and treatments, photographs of your injuries and the pressure cooker, the physical pressure cooker itself (preserved in its post-explosion condition), purchase receipts or proof of ownership, and witness statements. Your attorney may also arrange for expert examination of the device to identify specific defects.

5. Can I still file a lawsuit if my pressure cooker accident happened years ago?

Possibly, depending on your state's statute of limitations, which typically ranges from 1-4 years from the injury date. Some states apply the "discovery rule," extending the deadline to when you discovered the connection between your injury and the defective product. Consult with an attorney promptly, as waiting too long could permanently forfeit your right to compensation.

6. Do I need a lawyer to file a pressure cooker injury claim?

While not legally required, having an experienced product liability attorney is highly recommended. These cases involve complex legal and technical issues requiring specialized knowledge. A qualified lawyer will gather proper evidence, engage expert witnesses, handle communications with manufacturers and insurance companies, and maximize your compensation. Most attorneys offer free consultations and work on contingency, meaning you pay nothing unless you win.See all related personal injury lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action for pressure cooker injuries. Most states impose strict statutes of limitations ranging from 1-4 years from the date of injury, after which you may permanently lose your right to seek compensation.The evidence crucial to your case, including the defective pressure cooker itself and documentation of your injuries, becomes more difficult to preserve as time passes. Witnesses' memories fade, and medical records may become more challenging to obtain.At Schmidt & Clark, LLP we offer:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or attorney fees
• Payment only if we win your case
• Expertise in complex product liability litigation

Free Confidential Pressure Cooker Explosion Lawsuit Evaluation: Again, if you or a loved one suffered severe burns or other serious injuries caused by an exploding pressure cooker, whether or not the pressure cooker has been recalled, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a pressure cooker lawsuit and we can help.

References:

1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37666516/
2. https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2024/Best-Buy-Recalls-Insignia-Pressure-Cookers-Due-to-Burn-Hazard
3. https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2023/Sensio-Recalls-Bella-Bella-Pro-Series-Cooks-and-Crux-Electric-and-Stovetop-Pressure-Cookers-Due-to-Burn-Hazard
4. https://reviewed.usatoday.com/cooking/news/pressure-cooker-recall-2023-options-to-shop-after-best-buys-insignia-recall
5. https://www.cbsnews.com/miami/news/woman-warns-of-exploding-pressure-cooker-after-suffering-severe-burns/
6. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/johnsonbecker-files-lawsuit-against-instant-brands-for-instant-pot-explosion-301886761.html