What was recalled
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued a recall for specific Deli-branded fuel containers due to significant safety concerns that could lead to serious injury or death. This action was taken after it was determined that these products do not meet mandatory federal safety standards for portable fuel containers, particularly regarding the closure mechanisms designed to prevent accidental access by children. If you have purchased or own one of these specific metal cans, it is important to understand exactly which items are affected so you can take immediate steps to secure your home and family.
The recalled products are dark green metal fuel containers manufactured by Deli OfficeSupplies. These sturdy-looking cans feature a distinct cap and an attached plastic tube for dispensing fuel. A key identifying feature of these containers is the embossed Star logo on the side, along with the specific capacity of the container. The recall affects three specific size variants: 5.3-gallon (20-liter) units, 6.6-gallon (25-liter) units, and 7.9-gallon (30-liter) units. If your container bears the Deli brand name and one of these embossed capacity markings alongside the Star logo, it is likely part of this recall.
These fuel containers were sold exclusively through Walmart.com by the seller Deli OfficeSupplies. The recall notice was issued on August 13, 2026. While the CPSC has not reported any incidents or injuries related to these products at this time, the potential for harm remains high due to the design flaw in the closure system. It is crucial to verify whether your specific container matches the description above. Unlike standard gas cans that might have safety features built into the cap, these Deli-branded containers lack the necessary child-resistant closures required by law.
The decision to recall these items stems from a violation of the Children’s Gasoline Burn Prevention Act. This federal law mandates that portable fuel containers must have closures that are difficult for young children to open, thereby preventing accidental spills and subsequent burns or poisoning. Because these Deli containers do not meet this requirement, they pose a dual threat: the risk of severe burns from flammable liquid spills and the danger of child poisoning if ingested. Even though no incidents have been reported yet, the inherent design flaw makes these containers unsafe for use in households with children under five years old.
If you are unsure whether you own one of these recalled items, check your purchase history on Walmart.com or look at the physical characteristics of any dark green metal fuel containers you currently possess. The presence of the embossed Star logo and the specific capacity markings (5.3, 6.6, or 7.9 gallons) are key identifiers. Remember, this recall applies to all units sold by Deli OfficeSupplies on Walmart.com, regardless of when they were purchased within the relevant sales period. Identifying your product correctly is the first step in ensuring your safety and complying with the remedy process.
The hazard, explained
At the core of this recall is a fundamental failure in safety design: the closure mechanism on these Deli-branded fuel containers does not meet the mandatory requirements for child-resistant caps established by the Children’s Gasoline Burn Prevention Act. To understand why this matters, it helps to look at how gasoline interacts with both children and everyday environments. Gasoline is highly volatile, meaning it evaporates into flammable vapors at room temperature much more quickly than many other liquids. When a container is opened, even briefly, these vapors escape. If the cap cannot be securely sealed by an adult in a standard number of attempts—or worse, if it can be easily opened by a young child—the risk shifts from mere inconvenience to immediate physical danger.
The primary mechanism of injury here is twofold: burn and poisoning. Because the closure is not child-resistant, a curious toddler or young child could potentially unscrew or pop off the cap without significant effort. Once the seal is broken, two things happen simultaneously. First, liquid gasoline spills out. Gasoline causes severe chemical burns to the skin because it dissolves the natural oils and fats that protect our outer layer of tissue. Unlike water, which might just wet the skin, gasoline continues to penetrate deeper, leading to painful, slow-healing injuries that can become infected. Second, and perhaps more critically, the exposed surface area of the spilled fuel allows for rapid evaporation. A child playing near a puddle of gasoline is at risk of inhaling toxic fumes, which can lead to dizziness, nausea, respiratory distress, or even unconsciousness.
The danger escalates dramatically when ignition sources are introduced. Gasoline vapors are heavier than air and can travel along the ground to a distant flame, such as a pilot light on a water heater, a space heater, or even a static spark from clothing. If a child has gasoline on their clothes or skin and then moves near any heat source, the vapors can ignite instantly. This results in flash burns that are often severe and life-threatening. The CPSC notes that these containers violate federal standards specifically because they do not prevent this easy access to a highly dangerous substance.
It is also important to note that while no incidents have been reported to date, the potential for harm is latent and unpredictable. A single moment of carelessness by a child who can open the cap is all it takes. The lack of a proper locking mechanism means that the container offers no physical barrier against accidental opening during transport, storage in garages, or placement in vehicles where temperature changes might expand the internal pressure, further stressing any weak points in the seal. This recall highlights why specialized safety features are not optional luxuries for fuel storage; they are critical engineering controls designed to keep volatile chemicals away from vulnerable users.
Who is most at risk
While this recall issued by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) applies to anyone who purchased these Deli-branded fuel containers from Walmart.com, the primary concern centers on households with young children. The fundamental issue lies in the design of the container’s closure system. These dark green metal cans, available in 5.3-gallon, 6.6-gallon, and 7.9-gallon sizes, do not meet the mandatory safety standards for child-resistant caps established under the Children's Gasoline Burn Prevention Act. This means that the mechanism designed to keep the fuel sealed is not difficult enough for a young child to open, nor does it require a specific sequence of actions that would deter them. Consequently, any home where these containers are stored within reach of little ones—whether in a garage, basement, shed, or even a utility closet—is at immediate risk.
The vulnerability of children stems from their natural curiosity and developing motor skills. A child does not need to understand what gasoline is to be attracted to a brightly colored or distinctively shaped container. They may attempt to open the cap to see what is inside, spill fuel on themselves, or drink it, mistaking it for water due to the clear plastic tube often associated with pouring mechanisms. Once gasoline contacts skin, it can cause severe chemical burns that are difficult to treat and may require extensive medical care. Furthermore, ingesting even a small amount of gasoline can lead to serious poisoning, affecting the respiratory system and internal organs. Because children’s bodies are smaller and their systems are still developing, the toxic effects of ingestion or inhalation can be far more dangerous than they would be for an adult.
Beyond immediate physical injury, there is a broader risk to anyone who uses these containers for lawn mowers, generators, or other outdoor equipment. If a child gains access to the fuel while an adult is working nearby, the potential for accidental ignition increases significantly. Gasoline vapors are highly flammable, and a simple spark from clothing or a tool could ignite spilled fuel, leading to fire hazards that endanger not just the child, but family members and neighbors as well. While no incidents have been reported to date, the absence of current reports does not diminish the severity of the potential harm. The risk is latent and waiting for a moment of inattention.
Elderly individuals or those with limited mobility may also face heightened risks if they rely on these containers for essential equipment but struggle with the physical handling of heavy, uncapped fuel cans. If the child-proofing fails, an adult might inadvertently leave the container open during refueling, creating a hazard for anyone in the vicinity, including caregivers or grandchildren who visit regularly. Therefore, this recall affects not just the primary purchaser but the entire household ecosystem where the product is stored and used.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
If you recently purchased a fuel container from Walmart.com through the seller Deli OfficeSupplies, or if you have been using Deli-branded metal cans for storing gasoline or other fuels, it is important to verify whether your specific unit is part of this recall. Because these containers are durable goods designed for long-term use, they can look very similar to safe, compliant products at first glance. However, there are distinct visual markers that will help you confirm if your item matches the description of the recalled product. Please take a careful look at your cans and compare them against the details below.
First, check the brand identification. The recalled containers are explicitly branded as Deli. You should look for the brand’s distinctive Star logo, which is embossed directly into the metal side of the container. This logo is not just a sticker; it is part of the can's structure. If your container lacks this specific star branding or bears a different manufacturer's mark, it is likely not part of this specific recall batch, though you should always check the product documentation to be sure.
Next, examine the physical construction and color. The recalled items are dark green metal cans. They are not plastic; they are rigid steel or metal containers. A key feature to inspect is the closure system. These particular containers come with a cap and an attached plastic tube. This design, where a flexible plastic spout extends from the cap for pouring, is critical to note because it contributes to the hazard identified in this recall. If your green metal can has this specific cap-and-tube assembly, it warrants closer inspection.
You must also verify the capacity of the container, as the recall applies to three specific sizes. Look at the side of the can for embossed text indicating its volume. The recalled models are available in 5.3-gallon (20-liter), 6.6-gallon (25-liter), and 7.9-gallon (30-liter) capacities. This capacity information is embossed on the side of the containers alongside the Star logo. If your can matches one of these three volume measurements, it falls within the scope of the recall.
Finally, consider where and how you acquired the item. These specific Deli-branded dark green metal fuel containers were sold online exclusively through Walmart.com by the seller Deli OfficeSupplies. If you purchased a similar-looking container from a local hardware store, Amazon, or a different online retailer, it may not be part of this recall. However, if your purchase history shows an order from Deli OfficeSupplies on Walmart.com for a green metal fuel can with a Star logo and plastic spout tube in one of the listed sizes, you should stop using it immediately.
To be absolutely certain, do not rely solely on memory. Locate your original receipt or order confirmation email from Walmart.com to verify the seller name "Deli OfficeSupplies." Then, physically inspect your can for the dark green metal body, the embossed Star logo, the plastic tube cap, and the specific gallon/liter capacity markings. If all these features align, you have a recalled product that needs to be addressed through the remedy process.
What to do — step by step
If you own any of the recalled Deli-branded fuel containers, the most important thing you can do right now is to stop using them immediately. These dark green metal cans, which come in 5.3-gallon (20-liter), 6.6-gallon (25-liter), and 7.9-gallon (30-liter) sizes, have a closure system that does not meet the mandatory safety standards for child-resistant caps required by the Children's Gasoline Burn Prevention Act. Because the cap is not designed to prevent young children from opening it, leaving these containers accessible poses a serious risk of burn injuries or poisoning. Please do not wait to see if you receive an email or letter; take action today to ensure your household is safe. Once you have secured the containers in a location where children and pets cannot reach them, follow these specific steps to properly dispose of the item and claim your refund: 1. **Mark the container for destruction.** Take a permanent marker and clearly write the word "RECALLED" on the body of the fuel container. This step is crucial because it ensures that if the metal can is eventually recycled or processed, it will not be mistakenly reused or sold again. It also serves as proof to the manufacturer that you have taken the necessary safety precautions. 2. **Destroy the container.** After marking it, you must destroy the fuel container so it cannot hold any more fuel. The specific method of destruction is not detailed in the official recall notice, but generally, this involves puncturing the can or crushing it in a way that renders it unusable for storing liquids. Be sure to do this in a well-ventilated area away from any ignition sources, sparks, or open flames, as residual fumes may still be present even if you believe the container is empty. 3. **Document the destruction.** Take a clear photograph of the destroyed fuel container showing the "RECALLED" marking and the damage that proves it can no longer be used. You will need to send this photo to Deli OfficeSupplies as part of your refund request. This step helps the manufacturer verify that you have complied with the safety instructions. 4. **Contact Deli OfficeSupplies for your refund.** Reach out to the company to initiate your full refund. You can contact them by phone at 909-235-6518 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you can email service@steelitetool.com or visit their website at www.delibestmate.com and click "Recall" at the top of the page. When you contact them, provide your proof of purchase if you have it, along with the photo of the destroyed container as requested. 5. **Dispose of the remains properly.** Finally, dispose of the destroyed fuel container in accordance with your local and state hazardous waste disposal procedures. Do not simply throw it in your regular household trash unless local regulations explicitly allow it for damaged metal containers. Check with your local waste management authority to ensure you are disposing of the metal safely and legally. By following these steps, you eliminate the hazard in your home and receive the financial remedy you are entitled to. If you have any difficulties contacting the company, keep trying during their business hours or use the online portal, which may be available 24/7 for submitting your information.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
In this specific recall situation, the manufacturer has determined that the defect cannot be fixed in place, so there is no option for a simple repair kit or an on-site fix. Instead, the remedy provided by Deli OfficeSupplies is a full refund. This means you are entitled to get your money back for the product, regardless of whether it was new or used, as long as it is one of the affected models. The company has set up a clear process to make this as straightforward as possible for you, recognizing that dealing with safety recalls can be stressful and inconvenient. They want to ensure you are made whole financially while also ensuring the unsafe product is removed from your home and environment.
To get your refund, you must follow a specific sequence of steps outlined by the company. First and foremost, you need to stop using the recalled fuel containers immediately. Do not pour any more fuel into them, and do not attempt to use them for storage or transport. The next critical step is to prepare the item for destruction. You are asked to take a permanent marker and write the word "RECALLED" clearly on the body of the fuel container. This is not just a formality; it serves as a visual warning to anyone who might find the discarded item, ensuring they do not mistakenly reuse a dangerous product. After marking it, you must destroy the container. The specific method of destruction is not detailed in the recall notice beyond the instruction to destroy it, but the goal is to render the container unusable.
Once the container is destroyed and marked, you need to document this action. Take a clear photo of the destroyed fuel container showing the "RECALLED" writing. This photo serves as proof that you have followed the safety instructions correctly and are complying with the recall terms. With this photo ready, you can initiate the refund process by contacting Deli OfficeSupplies. You have several options for reaching them: you can call them at 909-235-6518 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday; you can email service@steelitetool.com; or you can visit their website at www.delibestmate.com/pages/recall-notice or click the "Recall" link at the top of www.delibestmate.com.
After you have submitted your photo and contact information through one of these channels, the company will process your full refund. Once the refund is confirmed and processed, you are instructed to dispose of the recalled product in accordance with your local and/or state disposal procedures. This part of the process is important because different municipalities have different rules for disposing of metal containers or hazardous material packaging. By following these steps precisely, you ensure that you receive your compensation while also contributing to public safety by preventing the recalled item from being reused by others. Remember, the primary goal here is your safety and financial restitution, so do not hesitate to use the provided contact methods if you have questions during this process.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to stop using a fuel container that has served you well for years. These Deli Jerry cans are durable, heavy-gauge metal vessels designed to hold significant volumes of gasoline or other flammable liquids. They feel solid in your hands, and their large capacities make them convenient for filling up lawnmowers, generators, or outdoor power equipment. When a product works as expected in terms of holding fuel without leaking from the seams, it creates a false sense of security. However, ignoring this recall means you are continuing to use a container that fails one critical safety requirement: the closure system is not child-resistant.
The core danger here is not that the container will explode on its own, but that it invites accidental access by young children. Because the cap does not meet the mandatory standards set by the Children’s Gasoline Burn Prevention Act, a toddler or curious child can likely open it with minimal effort. Once open, the contents are fully accessible. Gasoline is highly volatile and toxic. If a child spills it on their skin or clothing, the liquid can cause severe chemical burns and thermal burns if ignited by any nearby spark, static electricity, or heat source. The risk of ingestion is equally terrifying; even small amounts of swallowed gasoline can lead to serious poisoning, respiratory distress, and long-term health complications. These are not theoretical risks—they are the specific hazards that triggered this federal recall.
While the CPSC has not yet reported any incidents of injury or death related to these specific containers, the absence of reported cases does not mean the danger is absent. It simply means that, so far, no one has been harmed. This is a silent hazard. A container that looks and functions like any other Jerry can on your shelf will not warn you that it lacks this vital protective feature. By ignoring the recall, you are gambling with the safety of your household, particularly if you have young children who explore their environment by touching and tasting objects within their reach.
Continuing to use these containers also means you are violating federal safety standards for portable fuel containers. More importantly, you are leaving yourself without protection or recourse. If an accident were to occur because you continued to use a known defective product, it could complicate any potential legal or insurance matters. The recall remedy is straightforward and generous—a full refund provided you destroy the item. Choosing to keep it means you retain both the physical risk and the financial loss if you eventually need to buy a compliant container anyway. The inconvenience of destroying one can is far outweighed by the irreversible consequences of a child’s exposure to gasoline. Please do not wait for an incident to prove the hazard is real.
Staying safe: broader tips
When it comes to portable fuel containers, the goal is simple: keep the fuel contained and the people away from it. While this specific recall highlights a defect in one brand’s closure mechanism, the fundamental risks of gasoline storage apply to every container you own. Gasoline is highly volatile, meaning its vapors can travel along the ground and ignite from a distant spark, such as a pilot light or an electrical switch. Therefore, proper storage begins with location. Never store these cans inside your home, garage, or basement, even for short periods. Instead, keep them in a well-ventilated, cool, and dry outdoor shed or cabinet that is specifically designed for flammable materials. This ventilation is critical because it allows any escaping vapors to dissipate rather than accumulating to explosive levels.
Equally important is the physical security of the container itself. Always store fuel cans upright on a stable surface to prevent tipping, which can lead to leaks and dangerous spills. If you have children or pets in the household, treat fuel containers with the same level of caution as medication or cleaning supplies. Keep them in locked cabinets or high shelves that are completely inaccessible to curious hands. The Children’s Gasoline Burn Prevention Act exists because standard caps are often easy for young children to open, leading to tragic accidents. If you are unsure whether your current container meets modern child-resistant standards, it is worth inspecting the closure mechanism carefully. Does it require a specific tool or a two-step process to open? If not, consider replacing it with a model that has been certified as child-resistant.
Regular maintenance of your fuel containers is another layer of defense. Over time, rubber gaskets and seals can degrade, causing slow leaks that you might not notice until it is too late. Inspect the spout, cap, and body of your cans for cracks, rust, or signs of wear before each use. If a container looks old or damaged, do not risk using it; replace it with a new, UL-listed can that meets current safety standards. Additionally, never fill a fuel container to the brim. Leave some air space at the top to allow the fuel to expand as temperatures rise, which prevents pressure buildup and potential bursting.
Finally, stay informed about safety recalls in your own home. Manufacturers occasionally identify defects after products have been sold, and acting on these notices can prevent injury. You can sign up for alerts from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) or check their database regularly. By combining diligent storage habits with proactive awareness, you create a safer environment for your family and your property. Remember, safety is not just about reacting to problems; it is about building habits that prevent them from happening in the first place.
