What was recalled
In October of 2018, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant recall involving decorative home goods sold under the Cracker Barrel Old Country Store brand. Specifically, this action targeted a line of decorative driftwood pineapples that were marketed as festive or rustic accents for household interiors. These items were designed to mimic the look of natural, weathered wood combined with metallic foliage, intended to add a touch of warmth and texture to living rooms, entryways, or seasonal displays. However, the very features meant to give the decor its unique aesthetic—the sharp metal components—became the source of safety concerns that necessitated this widespread withdrawal from consumer homes.
The recalled products are distinct in their construction and dimensions. Each pineapple is crafted from tan driftwood spikes that form the body of the fruit. At the top of each wooden structure sits a cluster of spiked, galvanized metal leaves. These metal leaves were not merely decorative; they protruded outward with sharp edges that posed a direct physical risk to anyone handling the item. In terms of size, these decorative pieces are substantial, measuring approximately 19 inches in height, with a width and diameter of roughly 9.5 inches each. This makes them large enough to be a prominent feature on a table or shelf, but also large enough that they might be moved frequently by homeowners, increasing the likelihood of accidental contact with the hazardous metal parts.
The recall covers all units of this specific decorative pineapple sold by Cracker Barrel Old Country Store. While the provided records do not specify an exact total number of units sold or list distinct model numbers, the scope is defined by the product description and the brand’s retail channel. These items were available for purchase directly through Cracker Barrel Old Country Store locations. The announcement was made on October 9, 2018, signaling that any consumer who purchased this specific driftwood pineapple from the retailer prior to that date should be aware of the potential danger. It is important to note that while online purchasers would be contacted directly by the company, in-store buyers were expected to identify the product themselves based on its physical characteristics and return it for a remedy.
If you have purchased this item, you might recognize it by its specific combination of materials: the tan, spike-like wood forming the pineapple’s body and the galvanized metal leaves at the apex. The hazard is not in the wood itself, but in the sharp edges of those metal leaves. Because the product was sold as a decorative object rather than a toy or a child’s item, consumers might have been less vigilant about handling it with care compared to other household goods. The recall underscores that even decorative items can present serious risks if their design includes exposed, sharp components that are not clearly guarded or labeled for safe handling.
The hazard, explained
When you look at the decorative driftwood pineapples recalled by Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, they are designed to mimic a natural fruit with an artistic twist. The body is crafted from tan driftwood spikes, giving it a rustic, textured appearance that fits well into many home decors. However, the top of each pineapple features spiked, galvanized metal leaves intended to represent the crown of the fruit. While these metal components add structural definition and visual interest, they introduce a specific physical risk: sharp edges. The galvanized metal is rigid and unforgiving compared to the softer wood or plastic materials often found in similar decorative items. When these metal leaves are formed into spikes, the tips and sides can become exceptionally sharp, creating a laceration hazard that is not immediately obvious until contact is made.
A laceration occurs when a sharp object cuts through the skin and underlying tissue. In the case of these pineapples, the danger arises from direct contact with the metal spikes. Because the leaves are positioned at the top of the item, they are often within easy reach for hands that might be adjusting the decoration, dusting nearby surfaces, or simply moving the object around a shelf or table. The mechanism of injury is straightforward: if a finger slips against or presses into one of these sharp metal edges, the force applied by the hand can cause the skin to tear. This is particularly concerning because decorative items are often placed in high-traffic areas or on surfaces where people frequently pass by, increasing the likelihood of accidental contact.
The severity of such injuries can vary, but they are never trivial. The recall records indicate that this hazard is not merely theoretical; there have already been two reported incidents involving consumers cutting their fingers on these metal leaves. One of these injuries was significant enough to require stitches, which underscores the potential for deep tissue damage. Cuts from sharp metal edges can bleed profusely and may lead to infection if not properly cleaned and treated. Furthermore, the sudden pain from such a cut can cause people to jerk their hands away, potentially leading to secondary injuries or dropping other objects. Understanding this hazard helps clarify why the recall is necessary: it is not about the aesthetic value of the item, but about preventing preventable physical harm caused by sharp, exposed metal components in a household setting.
Who is most at risk
While the CPSC recall notice highlights that two specific incidents have occurred resulting in one injury requiring stitches, the nature of this hazard means that virtually anyone who interacts with these decorative items is potentially at risk. The primary group at risk includes households that display Cracker Barrel Old Country Store decorative driftwood pineapples in high-traffic areas of their homes or businesses. Because these items are designed as decor rather than functional tools, owners often place them on entryway tables, mantels, sideboards, or retail displays where they are easily touched, bumped, or moved. The danger is not inherent to the object’s existence but to its placement and the frequent, casual contact it invites.
Within that broad group of owners, certain demographics face a heightened vulnerability due to physical characteristics that make lacerations more likely or more severe. Children are particularly at risk for two reasons. First, their height may align with the lower sections of the pineapple’s structure or the base where the metal leaves extend outward, making accidental contact during play or movement around the room more probable. Second, children have thinner skin and less developed motor control, meaning a sharp edge that might merely sting an adult could cause a deeper cut in a child. Furthermore, children are often curious and may handle decorative objects with more force or without the caution adults apply to fragile items.
Elderly individuals also present a specific risk profile. As skin thins with age, it becomes more susceptible to tearing from sharp edges. Additionally, if an elderly person has reduced grip strength or balance issues, they might inadvertently grab the metal leaves for support while moving past the decoration, leading to a cut that could be complicated by slower healing times or underlying health conditions such as diabetes or poor circulation. The galvanized metal leaves, described as spiked and sharp-edged, act like hidden blades in plain sight. They are not obvious dangers until contact is made.
Another vulnerable group includes individuals with sensory impairments or cognitive conditions that affect spatial awareness. Someone who cannot see the protruding spikes clearly may brush against them unexpectedly. Similarly, individuals with conditions affecting fine motor skills might struggle to navigate around the item without making contact. The risk is amplified by the fact that these pineapples are approximately 19 inches high, placing the sharp metal leaves at a height that is easily within arm’s reach for an adult standing nearby. This proximity means that routine activities like dusting, rearranging furniture, or simply walking past can lead to accidental lacerations if the consumer does not actively avoid the sharp edges.
Therefore, the risk is not limited to those who intentionally touch the metal leaves but extends to anyone in the immediate vicinity of the recalled pineapples. The combination of sharp, exposed metal spikes on a decorative item placed in living spaces creates a persistent hazard for all occupants, with children, the elderly, and those with mobility or sensory challenges facing the greatest potential for harm.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Before you take any action or contact Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, it is essential to confirm that the decorative pineapple in your home matches the specific items subject to this recall. Because these are decorative pieces rather than utilitarian tools with serial numbers, identification relies on a combination of visual characteristics, physical dimensions, and provenance. The CPSC report specifies that the recalled products are described as "decorative driftwood pineapples." If your item looks like a standard plastic fruit or a ceramic statue, it is likely not part of this specific recall. You need to look for an item constructed from tan-colored spikes designed to mimic the appearance of weathered driftwood. This texture and color palette are critical distinguishing features; the body of the pineapple is made from these tan driftwood-like spikes, which gives it a rustic, natural aesthetic.
The most telling feature of the recalled items is the foliage at the very top. You must inspect the leaves closely. The recall specifically cites "spiked, galvanized metal leaves" as the component posing the laceration hazard. If your pineapple has fabric, plastic, or wooden leaves, it is not included in this action. However, if you see sharp, metallic spikes emerging from the center of the fruit's crown, proceed with caution. These metal leaves are the source of the reported injuries, including the incident requiring stitches, because their edges are sharp enough to cut skin upon contact.
Size is another definitive identifier. The recalled pineapples measure approximately 19 inches in height, with a width and diameter of roughly 9.5 inches each. This makes them a substantial decorative piece, nearly two feet tall. If your item is significantly smaller or larger than these dimensions, it may be a different product line. Additionally, consider where and when you purchased the item. These were sold at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® locations and potentially through their online channel. Since the recall was announced on October 9, 2018, any decorative pineapple matching this description acquired prior to that date should be treated with suspicion until verified.
To be absolutely certain, do not rely solely on memory or general appearance. Compare your item against the physical description: tan driftwood spike body, galvanized metal leafy top, and approximately 19 x 9.5 x 9.5 inches in size. If all these characteristics align, you likely possess a recalled unit. In such cases, stop using the item immediately to avoid potential injury from the sharp metal edges, and prepare to return it for a full refund as outlined in the remedy section.
What to do — step by step
If you own one of the decorative driftwood pineapples from Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, your first and most important action is to stop using the item immediately. This is not a situation where you should wait to see if something goes wrong. The recall notice from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) highlights that there have already been two reported incidents involving consumers cutting their fingers on the metal leaves at the top of the pineapple. One of those injuries was serious enough to require stitches. Because the hazard comes from the sharp edges of the galvanized metal leaves, continuing to handle or display the item poses a direct risk of laceration. By putting the pineapple away right now, you eliminate the possibility of accidental cuts to yourself or members of your household, particularly children who might be curious about the spikes and metal foliage. Once you have safely set the item aside, your next step is to arrange for a full refund. The remedy specified by Cracker Barrel Old Country Store is straightforward: you can return the recalled pineapple to any physical Cracker Barrel Old Country Store location. When you visit a store, simply bring the decorative pineapple with you. You do not need to have your original receipt or proof of purchase to process this return. The company has committed to issuing a full refund for the item, making the process as frictionless as possible for customers who wish to recoup their money. If you prefer not to make a trip to the store, or if you purchased the item online, the recall information indicates that online purchasers will be contacted directly by the company with instructions on how to proceed. For those who need further assistance or have questions about the return process, Cracker Barrel has established specific channels for consumer contact. You can call their dedicated recall hotline at 800-333-9566. This line is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time. Alternatively, you can visit their website at www.crackerbarrel.com and navigate to the “Product Recalls” section for additional information. It is advisable to keep your phone nearby during business hours if you choose to call, in case you need immediate clarification on where to bring your item or what to expect at the register. Remember, the goal here is to remove a potentially dangerous object from your home and receive compensation for it, so taking these steps promptly ensures both your safety and your financial interest are protected.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have one of the recalled Cracker Barrel Old Country Store decorative pineapples, the remedy is straightforward and designed to remove the hazard from your home as quickly as possible. In this specific recall, there are no repairs available because the sharp metal leaves are an integral part of the product’s design that cannot be safely modified by a consumer. The manufacturer has chosen to offer a full refund as the exclusive resolution for affected items. This approach prioritizes your safety and convenience over attempting to fix the defect, which is common in cases where the hazard involves sharp edges or structural integrity that is difficult to remediate without compromising the item’s function or appearance.
Your first step is to decide how you wish to return the item based on where you originally purchased it. If you bought the decorative driftwood pineapple in one of their physical retail locations, the process is designed to be simple and direct. You should take the pineapple back to any Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® location. There is no need to go back to the specific store where you made the purchase; the recall applies to all participating stores nationwide. When you arrive, simply bring the item with you. The staff will process your return and issue a full refund for the purchase price. This in-person option allows you to get your money back immediately without waiting for mail processing or shipping delays.
If you purchased the pineapple online through www.crackerbarrel.com, the process is slightly different but equally handled by the company. You do not need to navigate complex return forms or pay for shipping yourself. Instead, Cracker Barrel has stated that they will contact online purchasers directly. This proactive step means that if your order is identified in their system as part of the recall lot, you should expect to receive communication from them with specific instructions on how to proceed. This direct outreach ensures that digital customers are not left guessing about the next steps and removes the burden of tracking down contact information.
For those who need more information or did not purchase online, you can reach out to Cracker Barrel Old Country Store directly for assistance. They have set up a dedicated consumer contact line to handle these inquiries. You can call them at 800-333-9566. It is important to note their hours of operation: they are available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time. If you prefer to use the internet for support, you can visit www.crackerbarrel.com and click on the “Product Recalls” section. This page will likely contain the most up-to-date details regarding the recall status and any additional FAQs. By following these clear channels, you ensure that your refund is processed correctly and that the hazardous item is safely removed from your environment.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might want to keep your decorative pineapple on display. It likely holds sentimental value, perhaps reminding you of a trip to Cracker Barrel or simply adding a touch of rustic charm to your home’s decor. The metal leaves on top are galvanized and sturdy, designed to look like natural pine needles, and they may not immediately appear dangerous to the casual observer. However, ignoring this recall carries real, tangible risks that go far beyond a simple scratched finger.
The primary danger lies in the specific design of the hazard: sharp metal edges on the leaves at the top of the pineapple. These are not blunt or rounded; they are cut with precision to mimic foliage, which often results in thin, pointed tips and jagged sides. When you handle decorative items regularly—whether for dusting, rearranging furniture, or simply admiring them from close up—your hands naturally reach out to touch or adjust the object. The moment you brush against those metal leaves with any amount of force or friction, the risk of laceration spikes. A laceration is a deep cut that tears through the skin, and because these edges are made of galvanized metal rather than soft plastic or wood, they can slice cleanly through tissue.
We already know from reported incidents that this is not just a theoretical possibility. Cracker Barrel has confirmed cases where consumers have actually cut their fingers on these specific metal leaves. One such incident was severe enough to require stitches, indicating that the cuts were deep enough to penetrate multiple layers of skin and potentially reach underlying tissue or tendons. If you choose to ignore the recall and continue using the item, you are gambling with your physical safety every time you interact with it. The likelihood of injury increases significantly if there are children in the home who might be curious about the object, or if elderly individuals with thinner skin handle it. Even a minor cut on a finger can become infected if not treated properly, leading to further medical complications and unnecessary pain.
Beyond the immediate physical harm, there is also the emotional and logistical burden of dealing with an injury that was entirely preventable. Dealing with a laceration requires first aid, potentially a trip to urgent care or the emergency room, time off work, and the discomfort of healing wounds. By returning the item for a full refund as instructed, you eliminate this risk entirely. The peace of mind that comes from knowing your home is free from unnecessary hazards is worth far more than the decorative appeal of the pineapple. Do not let convenience or attachment to an object compromise your safety when a simple return process is available.
Staying safe: broader tips
While this specific recall addresses a clear defect in the metal leaves of decorative pineapples, it serves as a timely reminder that home decor items often blend fashion with function—and sometimes, they prioritize aesthetics over safety. When you bring decorative objects into your home, especially those made from heavy materials like driftwood, metal, or ceramic, consider their placement carefully. Items with sharp edges, pointed spikes, or unstable bases can pose unexpected risks to children who are curious and prone to touching everything within reach, as well as to pets that might bat at loose parts. Always inspect new decor for stability and smoothness before placing it in high-traffic areas or near play zones.
One of the most effective ways to stay safe is to treat your home inventory like a living document. Manufacturers do not always update their websites immediately when they identify a flaw, but government agencies like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) are diligent about tracking these issues. Make it a habit to check the CPSC’s recall database periodically, or sign up for email alerts related to household goods. This proactive step can help you catch issues before they result in injury, turning a potential accident into a simple return process.
Additionally, be mindful of how you display items with metallic components. Galvanized metal, while durable and visually appealing for rustic decor, can develop sharp burrs or edges over time due to handling, shipping, or environmental wear. If you own similar rustic-style decor, gently run your hand along the edges to check for roughness. If you feel any jagged spots, consider sanding them down with fine-grit sandpaper or applying a clear coat sealant to smooth the surface and prevent accidental cuts. This small maintenance task can extend the life of your decor while keeping it safe for everyone in the household.
- Inspect regularly: Check decorative items for loose parts, sharp edges, or structural weaknesses every few months.
- Place with care: Keep heavy or fragile decor out of reach of young children and pets.
- Stay informed: Subscribe to safety alerts from the CPSC and major retailers to stay ahead of potential hazards.
Finally, remember that your safety is never an afterthought. If you ever feel unsure about the condition of a home decor item, it is always better to err on the side of caution. Removing a potentially hazardous item from your home is a simple act that protects your family and ensures that your living space remains a place of comfort and joy, not concern. By staying vigilant and informed, you can enjoy beautiful decor without compromising on safety.