Costco has been at the center of an internal crisis affecting thousands of consumers in the U.S. A basic product for summer shopping has been pulled from shelves due to serious injury incidents. It's the Igloo 90 Qt Flip & Tow Rolling Cooler, one of the most popular items among customers during the summer season.
The recall was triggered by reports of amputations and other finger injuries, confirmed by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The problem lies in the cooler's retractable handle, which, when manipulated, can close unexpectedly and exert dangerous pressure on fingers, causing serious injuries. According to reports, at least 12 cases have been recorded, including fingertip amputations, bone fractures, and lacerations.
The magnitude of the product recall
A total of 1.06 million units have already been pulled from the shelves of Costco and other stores in the U.S., such as Target, Academy, Dick's, and Amazon. The alert has also reached Mexico and Canada, where 23,000 and 47,000 units, respectively, have been recalled. These products, manufactured by Igloo, were sold under the names Latitude and Maxcold, with prices ranging from $80 to $140.
This recall affects models manufactured before 2024, with date codes from 2023 or earlier, which are printed on the base of the product. Costco, through an email to its members, warned about the danger and offered a link to request a free replacement kit. Consumers can contact Igloo to obtain the replacement part and avoid the risk of further injuries.
How to receive the free replacement
Igloo has urged consumers to stop using the product and contact the company to arrange the replacement of their defective unit. The Texas-based company has kept constant communication with all affected customers, ensuring that handle replacements will be distributed at no cost.
This product recall reflects the importance of keeping safety in items sold to thousands of people. During a period of high demand, such as summer, sales of products in this category increase considerably. However, it's essential for consumers to be aware of the potential risks associated with defective products and know how they should act to protect their well-being.