Walmart Recalls 850,000 Ozark Trail Water Bottles Over Safety Hazards

Walmart, the retail giant, has announced a sweeping recall of 850,000 Ozark Trail 64-ounce stainless steel insulated water bottles following reports of injuries caused by faulty lids. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a statement on July 10, 2025, warning consumers about the potential hazards posed by the product. This recall highlights significant safety concerns and underscores the importance of prompt action to protect consumers.

Details of the Recall

The recall involves Ozark Trail 64-ounce stainless steel insulated water bottles, sold at Walmart stores and on Walmart’s website since 2017. The bottles feature a silver body, a black screw-on lid, and the Ozark Trail logo. According to the CPSC, the hazard arises when the bottles are used to store food, carbonated beverages, or perishable liquids like juice or milk over extended periods. Under these conditions, pressure builds up inside the bottle, causing the lid to eject forcefully when opened. This has resulted in serious injuries, including two cases of permanent vision loss.

Walmart has confirmed that the affected bottles are identifiable by model number 83-662, which appears only on the product packaging. Customers are urged to stop using these bottles immediately and return them to any Walmart store for a full refund. Walmart has also provided a customer service hotline at 800-925-6278 for additional assistance.

Injuries and Consumer Impact

The recall was prompted by three incidents of injury reported to Walmart and the CPSC. In these cases, the lids of the water bottles ejected with significant force, striking consumers in the face. Two of the victims suffered permanent vision loss due to the impact. This alarming pattern underscores the severity of the issue and the urgent need for consumers to heed the recall notice.

In a statement released on July 12, Walmart emphasized its commitment to customer safety. “The health and safety of our customers is always a top priority,” the company said. Walmart has worked closely with the CPSC and the product manufacturer, Olympia Tools International Inc., to ensure the swift removal of these bottles from stores and the dissemination of recall information to consumers.

Historical Context and Corporate Responsibility

This recall is not the first time a major retailer has faced scrutiny over product safety. In recent years, the CPSC has overseen numerous recalls involving products that posed risks to consumers. However, the scale of this recall—850,000 units—makes it one of the more significant actions in the retail sector. The bottles were manufactured in China and imported by Olympia Tools International, highlighting ongoing concerns about quality control in global supply chains.

As Newsweek reported, the Ozark Trail water bottles were sold for approximately $15 each, making them a popular choice among consumers seeking affordable, durable hydration solutions. The widespread availability of these bottles amplifies the importance of the recall, as millions of consumers may potentially be at risk.

Next Steps for Consumers

The CPSC has advised all owners of the affected bottles to stop using them immediately and to seek a full refund. Customers can return the bottles to any Walmart location or contact Walmart’s customer service for further instructions. The recall number for this action is 25-377.

Walmart’s proactive approach in addressing the issue reflects its effort to maintain consumer trust. By cooperating fully with the CPSC and issuing a transparent recall notice, the company aims to mitigate the potential fallout from this safety incident.

Ultimately, this recall serves as a reminder of the critical role that manufacturers and retailers play in ensuring product safety. Consumers are encouraged to remain vigilant and to act promptly when safety concerns arise.