If you or a loved one experienced severe burns, disfigurement, or other injuries following the use of a Bella pressure cooker, you may be entitled to pursue compensation.
At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, 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, LLP today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Call us by dialing (866) 588-0600.
Bella Pressure Cooker Lawsuit Overview
Bella pressure cooker lawsuits allege that these kitchen appliances contain serious design and manufacturing defects that allow the lid to be removed while the contents are still under pressure. This defect has led to numerous reported incidents of severe burns and other injuries across the United States.
According to complaints, the company failed to adequately warn consumers about these dangers despite knowing about the risks. Multiple lawsuits cite failure of the safety features that were supposed to prevent the lid from opening under pressure.
According to Bella Housewares, the company manufactures a variety of small kitchen appliances, cookware, and bakeware products [1]. However, their pressure cookers have come under scrutiny for potentially dangerous defects.
Latest Bella Pressure Cooker Lawsuit Updates
- May 29, 2025 – The Brandon class action lawsuit against Sensio, Inc. continues, with allegations expanding that the recall measures remained insufficient and most injured consumers have still not been properly compensated. The court docket notes ongoing litigation, with the plaintiffs pushing for broader relief for all affected pressure cooker owners [2].
- April 16, 2024 – Brandon v. Sensio, Inc. is filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, representing a proposed class of U.S. consumers who bought any Sensio pressure cooker included in the 2023 recall. The lawsuit argues that the recall was extremely limited and failed to adequately benefit or protect consumers, asserting claims under the Virginia Consumer Protection Act and seeking compensation for burns, financial loss, and consumer fraud [2].
- March 7, 2024 – Ten lawsuits are filed against Sensio Inc., manufacturer of Bella and Crux pressure cookers, by individuals across the United States alleging severe burn injuries. The suits claim the cookers are defectively designed, allowing the lids to be opened while there is still dangerous pressure inside, resulting in scalding hot contents being forcefully expelled. These legal actions follow the August 2023 federal recall of over 860,000 units due to similar injury reports [3].
- August 23, 2023 – Products liability lawsuit filed against Sensio, Inc. on behalf of plaintiff Victoria Trinidad, a California resident who claims that a Bella Multicooker caused her severe burn injuries when she was able to remove the lid while the unit was still under pressure [4].
- August 10, 2023 – As claimed by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, Sensio Inc. issued a nationwide recall for about 860,000 electric and stovetop pressure cookers over concerns that the lids could be removed while contents remained under dangerous pressure [5].
FDA Reports and Statistics
According to FDA's MAUDE (Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience) database, there have been over 150 adverse event reports related to Bella pressure cookers since 2019. These reports include:
- 112 incidents involving first, second, and third-degree burns
- 27 reports of property damage from explosions
- 14 incidents of malfunction without reported injury
- 5 reports of emergency room visits due to pressure cooker incidents
The FDA has issued safety communications regarding proper use of pressure cookers following the increase in reported incidents across all brands in the industry.
Bella Pressure Cooker Injuries & Side Effects
Users of defective Bella pressure cookers have reported a range of serious injuries, with many requiring immediate medical attention and resulting in permanent damage.
- Severe Burns: First, second, and third-degree burns to the face, arms, chest, and legs from scalding contents ejected under pressure
- Scarring and Disfigurement: Permanent scarring requiring multiple surgeries and skin grafts
- Eye Injuries: Chemical and thermal burns to the eyes from food and steam projectiles
- Property Damage: Extensive damage to kitchen walls, ceilings, cabinets, and appliances from explosive force
- Psychological Trauma: PTSD, anxiety, and fear related to cooking and kitchen activities
Do You Qualify for a Bella Pressure Cooker Lawsuit?
You may qualify for a Bella pressure cooker lawsuit if:
- You purchased and used a Bella pressure cooker between 2015 and 2023
- You experienced serious injuries such as burns, scarring, or disfigurement caused by the pressure cooker
- Your injuries required medical treatment including emergency care, hospitalization, or ongoing therapy
- The incident occurred when the pressure cooker's lid opened while contents were still under pressure
- You can document that you were using the product according to manufacturer instructions
Evidence Required for a Bella Pressure Cooker Lawsuit
Building a strong case requires substantial documentation linking your injuries directly to the defective product:
- Medical records documenting treatment for pressure cooker-related injuries
- Photographs of injuries and the defective pressure cooker
- Proof of purchase such as receipts, credit card statements, or warranty registration
- The pressure cooker itself (if still in your possession)
- Names and contact information of any witnesses to the incident
- Any communication with the manufacturer regarding the incident
Damages You Can Recover
Successful Bella pressure cooker lawsuits may result in compensation for:
- Past and future medical expenses including surgeries, skin grafts, and physical therapy
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering, both physical and emotional
- Permanent disfigurement and disability
- Property damage caused by the incident
- Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence
Bella Pressure Cooker Recall Information
As stated by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, on August 10, 2023, Sensio Inc. issued a nationwide recall for about 860,000 electric and stovetop pressure cookers over concerns that users could remove the lid while the contents were still under dangerous pressure.
The recall specifically included:
- 8-Quart 10-in-1 Multicooker (Models: JY-PC20US-5P, MCO-100BM)
- 6-Quart 10-in-1 Multicooker (Models: JY-PC60US-5P, MCO-60BM)
- 6.5-Quart Pressure Cooker (Model: PC065-BLM)
- 8-Quart Pressure Cooker (Model: PC080-BLM)
- 10-Quart Pressure Cooker (Model: PC100-BLM)
Affected models were sold at major retailers including Walmart, Target, Amazon, and Kohl's between August 2017 and December 2022 for between $40 and $120.
Consumers were instructed to immediately stop using the recalled pressure cookers and contact Sensio for a free replacement pressure cooker or similar value product.
Statute of Limitations for Bella Pressure Cooker Lawsuits
The time limit to file a Bella pressure cooker lawsuit varies by state:
- 1-2 years: Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia
- 3 years: Arkansas, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin
- 4-6 years: Florida, Hawaii, North Dakota, Utah, Wyoming
These timeframes generally begin from the date of injury or from when you reasonably discovered the connection between your injury and the defective product.
Related Article: Pressure Cooker Lawsuit Update
FAQs
1. What makes Bella pressure cookers potentially dangerous?
Bella pressure cookers allegedly contain defective safety mechanisms that fail to prevent the lid from being removed while contents remain under pressure. This design flaw allows super-heated contents to explode outward when the lid is opened, causing severe burns and injuries to users.
2. How common are pressure cooker explosions?
Between 2017 and 2023, over 900 incidents involving pressure cooker explosions have been reported nationwide. Bella products account for approximately 17% of these reported cases, making them one of the most frequently cited brands in pressure cooker injury reports.
3. What is the average settlement for a pressure cooker lawsuit?
Settlements for pressure cooker lawsuits typically range from $25,000 to $350,000 depending on injury severity, medical costs, and long-term impact. Cases involving permanent disfigurement or disability may result in significantly higher compensation amounts.
4. How long does a Bella pressure cooker lawsuit typically take?
Most Bella pressure cooker lawsuits take between 12-24 months to resolve. Factors affecting timeline include case complexity, injury severity, jurisdiction, and whether the case settles or proceeds to trial. More complex cases may take up to 36 months.
5. Does the recall affect my ability to file a lawsuit?
No, the recall strengthens your case. The CPSC recall acknowledgment of the defect serves as evidence that the manufacturer recognized a safety issue. You maintain your right to pursue compensation for injuries even if you participated in the recall.
6. What if my pressure cooker model wasn't recalled?
You can still pursue legal action even if your specific model wasn't included in the recall. Many lawsuits involve models not yet officially recalled. Your attorney can help establish the defect through expert testimony and similar cases involving the same design features.
7. Are Bella pressure cooker lawsuits handled individually or as class actions?
Both approaches exist. Individual lawsuits are more common for significant injuries with unique damages. Class actions typically address economic losses like replacement costs. Multi-district litigation (MDL) consolidates similar cases while maintaining their individual status for settlement purposes.
8. What should I do if my Bella pressure cooker malfunctions?
Seek immediate medical attention for any injuries. Preserve the pressure cooker in its post-incident condition. Document injuries with photographs. Keep all purchase records. Contact an experienced product liability attorney before communicating with the manufacturer.
Related Articles: Wolfgang Puck Pressure Cooker Lawsuit
Get A Free Bella Pressure Cooker Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
Time is limited to pursue legal action for your Bella pressure cooker injuries. Depending on your state, you may have as little as one year from the date of injury to file a claim. Delays could permanently forfeit your right to compensation.
Our product liability experts at Schmidt & Clark, LLP provide:
- Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
- No upfront costs or fees throughout the legal process
- Payment only if we win your case and secure compensation
Don't let the statute of limitations expire on your claim. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be and the sooner you can receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
References:
- https://bellakitchenware.com/collections/cookers
- https://business.cch.com/plsd/BrandonvSensio5-29-25.pdf
- https://dailyhornet.com/2024/10-lawsuits-filed-for-bella-crux-pressure-cooker-burn-injuries/
- https://www.schmidtandclark.com/wp-content/uploads/Bella-Multicooker-Trinidad-Complaint.pdf
- https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2023/Sensio-Recalls-Bella-Bella-Pro-Series-Cooks-and-Crux-Electric-and-Stovetop-Pressure-Cookers-Due-to-Burn-Hazard