Wal-Mart GE Food Processor Recall: Lacerations and Fires Reported

Dozens of reports of fires, hand injuries and overheating have led to a recall of about 255,000 General Electric food processors sold at Wal-Mart stores. 

The Walmart food processor recall was announced on May 25 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), which has determined that the safety interlock system on the processors is prone to failure. This can lead to the food processor running without the lid securely in place, which poses a laceration hazard. Additionally, the units can smoke and catch fire.

Walmart reports that it has received 24 reports of the food processors operating without the lid in place, which has resulted in 21 reported fingertip injuries. There have also been 34 reports of the units smoking, with three of those incidents resulting in the food processors bursting into flames.

The recall affects GE digital 14-cup food processors. The processors have a model number of 169203, which is located on the underside of the appliances. They are black with stainless steel trim and a clear plastic container.

The affected GE food processors were sold exclusively at Walmart stores and were available through the Walmart.com website from September 2009 through February 2011. They sold for about $50 each.

This is the second major Walmart appliance recall in less than six months due to the risk of fire. In December the store was forced to recall more than 2 million electric heaters after four people were injured and 11 reports of property damage.

The CPSC recommends that consumers immediately stop using the recalled food processors. The appliances should be returned to any Walmart store for a full refund. Consumers with questions can call Walmart customer service at 1-877-207-0923 or visit the company’s website at www.walmartstores.com/recalls.