BlendJet is issuing a recall for approximately 4.8 million of its portable blenders due to concerns of laceration and fire hazards, according to a statement released by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The BlendJet 2 Portable Blenders have been found to overheat or catch fire, and there have been reports of the blender blades breaking off during use.

To date, the CPSC has received 329 reports of blades breaking during operation, along with an additional 17 reports of overheating or fires that resulted in around $150,000 in property damage claims. The company has also been notified of 49 reports involving minor burn injuries, as well as one reported laceration injury.

In light of these safety concerns, regulators are urging consumers to immediately stop using the recalled blenders and to contact BlendJet for a free base unit replacement. Customers who wish to receive the replacement part will need to remove and cut up the base's rubber seal, then upload or email a photo of the seal using BlendJet's website.

According to BlendJet, the recall primarily affects older BlendJet 2 blenders, and the current models available for purchase through the company's website and retail partners have already been updated with improved components, making them exempt from the recall. The company stated that it had taken proactive measures to enhance the base of the BlendJet 2 blenders, including the incorporation of thicker blades and an improved electrical configuration, several months ago.

The blenders subject to the recall are identified by their serial numbers, which begin with numbers between "5201" and "5542," as stated by BlendJet. Models with serial numbers "5543" or higher are not included in the recall. Consumers can verify if their blender is affected by either providing product information on BlendJet's website or reaching out to the company directly.

The CPSC notes that the recalled BlendJet Portable Blenders were sold between October 2020 and November 2023, both online and in physical stores. Retailers that carried the products include popular outlets such as Costco, Walmart, and Target.

In addition to the 4.8 million recalled units in the United States, it is estimated that around 117,000 BlendJet 2 blenders were sold in Canada, according to regulatory authorities.

BlendJet is committed to ensuring the safety and satisfaction of its customers and is working diligently to address this issue. Consumers are advised to act expeditiously in response to the recall to prevent potential injuries or property damage.