Costco Wholesale has issued an urgent recall for a batch of its own-brand water bottles following alarming reports that the glass containers can shatter without warning, posing a serious risk of injury to consumers.
The recall affects specific 1.5-litre bottles of Kirkland Signature Still Mineral Water that were sold in packs of six. The dangerous defect involves the bottle's glass suddenly fracturing, potentially sending sharp shards flying and causing severe lacerations.
Immediate Action Required
The product has been immediately withdrawn from sale, and customers who have purchased the affected items are being urged to take action.
What to do if you have the product:
- Stop using the bottles immediately. Do not attempt to drink from them or move them unnecessarily.
- Handle with extreme care. To dispose of the product, wrap it securely in multiple layers of newspaper or place it in a thick bag to prevent injury from broken glass.
- Return for a full refund. Take the product or proof of purchase (your receipt) to your nearest Costco warehouse for a complete refund.
Identifying the Faulty Bottles
The recall targets bottles with the specific best-before date of October 2024. Consumers should check their bottles for this date mark to determine if they are part of the dangerous batch.
While no official statement on the root cause has been released, such defects often stem from imperfections in the glass or thermal stress during the manufacturing or filling process, causing the bottle to weaken and explode under pressure.
Prioritising Consumer Safety
This recall has been classified as a high-priority safety action. A spokesperson for the company emphasised that "the safety of our members is our highest priority" and advised all members to check for the affected products at home.
For more information, concerned customers can contact Costco's Member Services directly. This swift action underscores the critical importance of robust product safety protocols in the retail sector to protect consumers from harm.
