SharkNinja Recalls 1.8 Million Foodi Multi-Function Pressure Cookers Due to Burn Hazard; Serious Burn Injuries Reported

What was recalled

In a significant safety update issued on May 1, 2025, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced that SharkNinja is voluntarily recalling approximately 1.8 million Ninja Foodi Multi-Function Pressure Cookers. This large-scale recall targets a specific line of kitchen appliances designed to combine pressure cooking and air frying capabilities into a single unit. The primary concern driving this action involves the structural integrity and locking mechanism of the pressure-cooking lid, which has been found to potentially open while the appliance is still in use, creating a serious risk for consumers.

The recalled products are exclusively from the Ninja Foodi OP300 Series. These multi-function cookers were marketed with a 6.5-quart capacity and typically feature a sleek black exterior finish. To help you identify if your unit is part of this specific recall, please look closely at the front of the appliance where the brand name "Ninja" is prominently printed. More importantly, you must examine the label located on the side of the cooker to verify the model number. The following specific model designations are included in this recall: OP300, OP301, OP301A, OP302, OP302BRN, OP302HCN, OP302HAQ, OP302HW, OP302HB, OP305, OP305CO, and OP350CO. It is crucial to note that any additional code appearing after these model numbers on the label is not part of the official model designation; for instance, a unit labeled "OP301 I07" is simply a model OP301 unit and is therefore covered by this recall.

This recall also extends beyond just the original units sold in retail boxes. If you purchased an additional replacement pressure cooker lid specifically designed for the OP300 series as a separate part, that lid is included in the recall as well. These appliances were widely distributed across the United States and its territories. While the announcement does not specify every retailer, these items were generally available through major online platforms and brick-and-mortar kitchen appliance stores during the period prior to this recall date. Because the issue relates to a critical safety component rather than a cosmetic defect, the scope is extensive, covering nearly two million units that have entered American homes. If you own any of the listed models or purchased a standalone replacement lid for them, it is important to verify your specific unit against the official list immediately.

• Brand: Ninja Foodi
• Series: OP300 Series Multi-Function Pressure Cookers
• Key Models: OP300, OP301, OP301A, OP302, OP302BRN, OP302HCN, OP302HAQ, OP302HW, OP302HB, OP305, OP305CO, OP350CO
• Total Units: Approximately 1.8 million
• Recall Date: May 1, 2025

The hazard, explained

To understand why this recall is so urgent, it helps to look at what is happening inside the cooker when things go wrong. The Ninja Foodi OP300 Series Multi-Function Pressure Cookers are designed to trap steam and build up intense heat and pressure to cook food quickly. Under normal circumstances, a complex system of locks and sensors keeps the lid securely sealed while this high-pressure environment exists. However, in the recalled units, there is a critical failure in that safety mechanism: the pressure-cooking lid can be opened even while the vessel is still under pressure or while hot contents are actively escaping.

This is not a minor glitch; it is a fundamental breakdown of the primary safety barrier. When you open a standard pressure cooker lid while the internal pressure has not been fully released, the difference between the high pressure inside and the normal air pressure outside causes an immediate and violent release of energy. The hot food, boiling liquid, and dense steam are no longer contained. Instead of rising gently from a vent, they erupt outward with significant force.

The harm comes from two sources working at once: extreme heat and physical impact. First, the temperature inside a pressure cooker can exceed 250°F (121°C), which is well above the boiling point of water. Contact with liquid or steam at this temperature causes severe thermal injuries almost instantly. Second, because the contents are pressurized, they do not just spill; they spray. This means that hot oil, acidic sauces, or starchy liquids can be propelled directly onto your face, hands, arms, and torso.

The reports from SharkNinja confirm that this mechanism is causing serious damage. The company has documented 106 injury reports, with more than 50 involving second- or third-degree burns to the face or body. Second-degree burns damage both the outer layer of skin and the layer beneath it, often causing blistering and significant pain, while third-degree burns destroy all layers of skin and can cause permanent tissue damage. Injuries to the face are particularly concerning because they can affect vision, breathing, and long-term scarring. The fact that 26 lawsuits have been filed underscores the severity of these incidents; these are not minor scalds that heal in a day, but traumatic injuries with lasting consequences.

It is important to note that this hazard is specific to the pressure-cooking function. The air frying and other non-pressurized functions do not create the same internal steam pressure buildup. Therefore, while the lid issue exists, the immediate danger of an explosive release of hot contents is tied directly to using the unit as a pressure cooker. Until the faulty lid is replaced, the only way to prevent this specific type of injury is to stop using that particular function entirely.

Who is most at risk

Understanding who is most vulnerable to this specific hazard requires looking beyond the simple fact that a pressure cooker can malfunction. The core of the danger lies in the sudden, uncontrolled release of high-pressure steam and scalding hot food contents. Because the lid can open during use without the user’s immediate intent or awareness, the primary group at risk includes anyone actively cooking with these units, particularly those who may have stepped away briefly or assumed the appliance was secure while it was still under pressure.

Certain demographics face heightened risks due to physical vulnerability. Children, for instance, are disproportionately affected by burn injuries because their skin is thinner and more delicate than that of adults. A second- or third-degree burn that might cause temporary discomfort to an adult can result in severe, long-term tissue damage for a child. Furthermore, children may be present in the kitchen not just as bystanders but as active participants in meal preparation, making them susceptible if they are standing close to the unit when the lid unexpectedly releases.

Elderly individuals and those with mobility challenges also require careful consideration. As people age, skin elasticity decreases, making burns more severe and healing slower. Additionally, reaction times may be slower, meaning an older adult might not be able to move quickly enough to avoid the initial blast of steam or hot liquid. The psychological shock of a sudden malfunction can also lead to secondary injuries, such as falls or drops, which compound the primary burn hazard.

Another critical factor is the location where these cookers are often used: multi-generational households and shared living spaces. Since the Ninja Foodi OP300 Series was sold widely in black with a 6.5-quart capacity, it is likely present in many homes where multiple people interact with the appliance. Family members who are less familiar with the specific safety mechanisms of this model may inadvertently leave the unit under pressure or fail to recognize warning signs before opening it. This lack of familiarity increases the likelihood of accidental exposure to hot contents.

Finally, individuals who frequently use the pressure-cooking function are at greater risk simply by virtue of exposure frequency. While other functions like air frying remain safe, the repeated use of the pressure feature amplifies the statistical probability of encountering a defect. Those who rely on these appliances for daily meal preparation should be especially vigilant, as they may become complacent over time, assuming that previous safe uses guarantee future safety. This recall underscores that even routine tasks can carry hidden dangers if equipment fails unexpectedly.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

If you own a Ninja Foodi multi-function pressure cooker that looks like the one described below, it is important to verify whether your specific unit is part of this recall. The affected products are all part of the Ninja Foodi OP300 Series. These units are distinctively black in color and feature a 6.5-quart capacity, which is a standard size for many household pressure cookers but can be tricky to distinguish without checking the label. The brand name "Ninja" is prominently printed on the front of each unit, making visual identification easy at first glance, but you must look closer to confirm the model details.

The most reliable way to determine if your cooker is included in this recall is by locating the product label. This label is typically found on the side of the cooker’s base or body. On this label, you will find the specific model number printed clearly. The recall covers units with the following model numbers: OP300, OP301, OP301A, OP302, OP302BRN, OP302HCN, OP302HAQ, OP302HW, OP302HB, OP305, OP305CO, and OP350CO. It is crucial to understand that any additional code following the model number on the label is not part of the model designation itself. For example, if your label reads "OP301 I07," you have a recalled model OP301 unit. The "I07" portion is an internal production code and does not exempt you from the recall.

In addition to the main units, this recall also includes any replacement pressure cooker lids that were purchased separately for these models. If you bought an extra lid specifically as a replacement part for your existing OP300 series cooker, it is also covered by this safety notice. Since these cookers combine pressure cooking and air frying functions, they are often used frequently in busy households. Given that the hazard involves the pressure-cooking lid opening during use, accurate identification is the first step toward preventing potential burn injuries. If you have any doubt about your model number, it is always safer to contact SharkNinja directly for verification rather than guessing.

To summarize, check your unit for these key identifiers: it must be a black Ninja Foodi multi-function pressure cooker with a 6.5-quart capacity, and the side label must list one of the specific OP300 series model numbers mentioned above. If your unit matches these criteria, please proceed to the remedy section for instructions on how to get a free replacement lid.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you own one of the affected Ninja Foodi Multi-Function Pressure Cookers, rest assured that SharkNinja has established a clear and accessible remedy to resolve this safety concern. The company is not asking you to discard an entire appliance; instead, they are providing a free replacement lid. This approach recognizes that the core issue is isolated to the pressure-cooking lid mechanism, which can inadvertently open during use and release hot contents. By replacing just the faulty component, SharkNinja allows you to continue using your device for its other valuable functions, such as air frying, while eliminating the specific burn hazard associated with pressure cooking. This is a practical solution that minimizes disruption to your kitchen routine while prioritizing your physical safety.

To initiate this process, you will need to contact SharkNinja directly through one of their designated support channels. The company has set up a toll-free customer service line at 888-370-1733. It is important to note their operating hours, as availability varies by day of the week. You can reach them by phone from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Eastern Time on Monday through Friday, and from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time on Saturdays. If you prefer written communication or need to submit documentation, you may also email them at sharkninja@rqa-inc.com. For those who prefer managing their support requests online, SharkNinja directs consumers to visit https://www.rqa-inc.com/client/SharkNinja/ or navigate to www.ninjakitchen.com and select "Recalls" under the "Support" menu at the top of the page.

When you reach out to customer service, be prepared to provide specific details about your unit to ensure you receive the correct part. You will need to identify the model number, which is printed on a label located on the side of the cooker. The recall covers all Ninja Foodi OP300 Series Multi-Function Pressure Cookers. Specific model numbers included in this recall are OP300, OP301, OP301A, OP302, OP302BRN, OP302HCN, OP302HAQ, OP302HW, OP302HB, OP305, OP305CO, and OP350CO. Remember that any additional code following the model number is not part of the designation; for example, a unit labeled "OP301 I07" is simply a model OP301. Additionally, if you previously purchased an OP300 series replacement pressure cooker lid as an additional part, that lid is also included in this recall and should be replaced.

The remedy provided is a free replacement lid, meaning there is no cost to you for the part or the shipping required to return your defective lid. This is a critical distinction from some other recalls where consumers might face partial refunds or have to pay for return shipping. SharkNinja’s commitment to providing this part at no charge underscores the seriousness of the hazard, given that they have received over 100 reports of burn injuries, including more than 50 reports of second- or third-degree burns. By taking the time to request your replacement lid promptly, you are not only protecting yourself and your household from potential injury but also ensuring that your appliance remains a safe and useful tool in your kitchen for years to come.

What can happen if you ignore it

It is completely understandable to feel hesitant about stopping a beloved kitchen appliance, especially one that has become a staple for your weekly meal prep. The Ninja Foodi Multi-Function Pressure Cooker offers incredible convenience, blending the speed of pressure cooking with the crispiness of air frying. However, ignoring this recall carries significant and immediate physical risks that go far beyond a simple inconvenience. The core issue is not that the machine will break down or stop working; rather, it is that a critical safety mechanism has failed in a way that can turn a routine cooking task into a dangerous emergency.

The primary danger lies in the pressure-cooking lid. Under normal circumstances, a pressure cooker builds up intense heat and steam to cook food rapidly. The lid is engineered to lock securely until that internal pressure drops to a safe level. In these recalled units, however, the lid can be opened while the pot is still under pressure. If you attempt to open it during this phase, or if the latch fails unexpectedly, the sealed environment ruptures instantly. This results in a violent release of superheated steam and boiling hot food contents. This is not a gentle venting of steam; it is an explosive ejection of material at high velocity and temperatures capable of causing severe tissue damage in a fraction of a second.

The statistics from SharkNinja paint a sobering picture of what happens when this defect is ignored. The company has documented 106 reports of burn injuries linked directly to this specific failure mode. More alarmingly, over half of these incidents involved second- or third-degree burns. These are not minor red marks or superficial irritation; they are serious medical injuries that often require emergency room treatment, specialized wound care, and potentially long-term recovery processes. Third-degree burns, in particular, destroy layers of skin and can damage underlying nerves and tissues, leading to permanent scarring and loss of function.

Beyond the physical trauma, there is the risk of where you are standing when this happens. Because these cookers are often used on kitchen counters within arm’s reach, a sudden release of hot contents typically affects the user’s face, hands, arms, or torso. Injuries to the face are especially devastating, potentially affecting vision and requiring reconstructive surgery. Furthermore, the chaotic nature of such an accident can lead to secondary injuries, such as dropping the heavy appliance, causing cuts or crushing injuries, or even starting a fire if hot oil ignites nearby combustible materials.

Ignoring this recall also means you are gambling with your health for no real gain. The remedy is simple: you do not need to throw away the entire unit. You can continue to use the air frying, sautéing, and other non-pressure functions safely while you wait for your free replacement lid. By refusing to act, you are choosing to keep a known, active hazard in your home rather than accepting a straightforward, free solution that eliminates the risk entirely. The lawsuits filed by affected consumers underscore that these injuries are preventable but serious enough to warrant legal action when manufacturers fail to address them promptly. Take the few minutes to contact SharkNinja today; it is a small step to protect yourself and your family from potentially life-altering harm.

Staying safe: broader tips

While specific product recalls are necessary to address isolated manufacturing defects or design flaws, true kitchen safety relies on a layered approach to prevention and awareness. High-pressure cooking appliances, like the ones involved in this recent recall, operate under significant internal stress. Understanding how these devices function generally can help you prevent accidents even when no formal recall is active. The primary danger with pressure cookers is rapid steam release. Always ensure that the pressure release valve is clear of obstructions before starting a cycle. Food particles or starches can sometimes clog these vents, turning a controlled release into an uncontrolled explosion of hot vapor. Regularly inspecting the silicone sealing ring for cracks, warping, or debris is also critical; a compromised seal not only affects cooking performance but can force steam to escape through unintended pathways, such as the lid latch mechanism.

Beyond the appliance itself, your kitchen environment plays a vital role in injury prevention. Keep flammable items, such as wooden utensils, paper towels, and curtains, well away from the steam vent and the top of the cooker. The exhaust can reach temperatures high enough to ignite materials instantly. Additionally, never attempt to force the lid open if it resists. Modern pressure cookers are designed with multiple safety interlocks that prevent opening while internal pressure remains. If the lid will not budge, there is likely still significant pressure inside. Allow the unit to cool naturally or use the manual release method exactly as described in your owner’s manual, standing back from the vent. Forcing the lid can damage the locking mechanism permanently and create a hazard for future use.

Proactive vigilance is your best defense against unexpected product failures. Sign up for email alerts from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, or Best Buy. These services notify you instantly when new recalls are issued for items you have purchased or might buy. It is also wise to register your major appliances with the manufacturer immediately after purchase. This ensures that if a latent defect is discovered later, you can be contacted directly rather than relying on public announcements that you might miss. Finally, consider your home’s emergency preparedness. While not specific to pressure cookers, having working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms in your kitchen area provides an essential layer of protection against fire hazards that may arise from any electrical appliance malfunction.

Lastly, treat your appliances with respect and follow the principle of "clean as you go." Built-up grease or food residue on heating elements or vents can cause smoking, sparking, or uneven heat distribution. A clean appliance is not only more efficient but significantly safer. By combining general safe usage habits with active monitoring of safety alerts, you protect your household from both known and unknown risks.