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Important information for our community, especially those that have purchased a Ninja blender between March 2012 through September 2015
NINJA MODELS RECALLED
Blenders, by their very nature, can be dangerous. After all, their purpose is to slice through food ingredients and ice. They feature sharp blades. These can can cause lacerations when the blender is handled improperly. But some blenders may be more dangerous than others.
According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, the list of dangerous blenders now includes the 12 models from the Ninja line of BL660 professional blenders.
Ninja blenders have a feature called the Total Crushing Technology and it’s fairly unique in the industry. The assembly of the blades is certainly one of a kind. They have mounted sharp blades inside the pitcher at different heights. The blade assembly does not attach to the pitcher in any way.
This design increases the risk of laceration for Ninja users. It’s not a theory, mind you, but a fact.
Here’s why:
Following 53 separate reports of lacerations to the CPSC, Ninja has recalled 12 different blender models. These include the BL660, BL660B, BL660C, BL660QCN, BL660QPL, BL660W, and the BL660WM in the BL660 series, the BL663 and the BL663CO in the BL663 lineup, and the BL665QBK, BL665QCN, and BL665QWH among the BL665 models. This recall affects 1.1 million Ninja blenders sold in the US (and ad additional 99,000 in CANADA). You can find the model number on the bottom of the blender.
All of these models have a clear 72 ounce pitcher with a removable gray or black lid that opens and locks closed, a stacked blade assembly, and one or more Nutri Ninja cups. All recalled models have a motor base that is gray, white, black, cinnamon, or platinum. The power of the models’ motors vary from 1,000 to 1,200 watts. They may have sold the recalled models with additional accessories, including a 40 or 64 ounce bowl, a chopping blade assembly, or a dull dough blade assembly.
According to the CPSC, the blenders pose a risk of laceration when users pour or turn the pitcher upside down after removing the lid, while the loose stacked blade assembly is still inside it.
I myself have experienced cutting my finger when handling this machine during testing at home. It was just a nick and I did not report it – so I can only imagine the true number is much larger than the 53 reports.
However, Ninja quickly points out that they are not really recalling the blenders at all. This means that there is no need to return a blender that the recall affects. The user only needs to familiarize himself or herself with the new safety instructions regarding its use. The Ninja manual webpage features the new instructions, and in the future, the written manual for these models will also contain the new instructions.
Potential Solutions to Ensure Safety
To address the problem of safety, users of recalled Ninja Models have several possible solutions.
One way to eliminate the risk of laceration is to pour the contents through the pour snout while the lid is still locked onto the pitcher. Another way to minimize the risk is to carefully remove both the lid and the stacked blade assembly from the pitcher before the user pours out its contents.
But you can sidestep the risk entirely by getting a blender with better safety features!! Blendtec blenders have an excellent reputation for safety, as none of its blender models has ever been subjected to a recall. In fact, the safety blades of Blendtec pose no risk of lacerations at all.
By selecting the right blender model, you can enjoy the health benefits of using blenders without risking injuries.
Reference:
https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2016/Laceration-Injuries-Prompt-SharkNinja-to-Recall-Ninja-BL660-Blenders
I have the Nutri Ninja for a few years. I am very upset and disappointed, this machine should last long but I realize that the material they use is no stainless steel, after I prepared a smoothie for my grandkids and feed them, I washed the machine and I noticed a brown liquid coming from the blade and leaking to the bottom, it was rust I was very upset because this liquid also contaminated the smoothie that myself and my grandkids drink. I put some water in the jar run the machine to confirm that the rust contamines the water, the water became cloudy and dirty with rust particles. Can you advise me where should I complain about this since this very dangerous for everybody health.
Hi Carmen, I’m so sorry that happened to you. My suggestion is to contact the better business bureau and leave a review of what happened on this particular model where it’s sold. Also, it’s time to upgrade to a high quality blender such as Vitamix or Blendtec. You can check out my Blendtec vs Vitamix review here.
I purchased a Ninja BL 770 30 to make my potato leek soup recipe ( it’s delicious) and when I used the blender hot soup leaked out all over my counter, me, and my kitchen floor/ backsplash. The rubber ring on the lid doesn’t seal correctly. I used my old blender. Out of sight out of mind. I called later about it but it was out of warranty. They charged me for the entire new upper plastic pitcher and lid. The new pitcher and lid did the exact same thing! Now I’m out 120 dollars plus the other 35 I spent for the new pitcher/lid. They will not stand by their products! I’m lucky I didn’t get burned.
So that’s why I read over and over remove blade before pouring, remove blade before putting in dish washer, remove blade for etc etc. But I’m so confused do you have to remove the blade for a small model? I have one blade at the base of the cup on the lid and I don’t know how to remove it before washing.
Irene the blade at the bottom of the small jar should also be removable. Which model do you have?
I’ve had my ninja blender for 2 weeks now and I’ve cut myself twice so far. I love the blender so I’ll be keeping it, but from now on I’ll be treating the blades as if they are a grenade.
Oh my gosh! So sorry Theresa! Glad it wasn’t more serious. I feel like there’s a learning curve with Ninja and their sharp blades. Definitely good to know to be EXTRA careful with it and it’s NOT kid-friendly. Thanks for sharing your experience and I hope you don’t get cut again.
I’ve had mine only 2 days…and already sliced my thumb open. It’s such a good blender, but the lack of that safety feature is unfortunate. I will use the spout from now on, however, I still need to rinse it out after cleaning it. The dishwasher method is great if you put your dishes through it twice per day, which I can pretty much guarantee nobody does that…..or very few.
Thanks for sharing your experience with us. I’m sorry to hear about your thumb. I’ve done the same more than once just while testing this blender. I think this particular Ninja model can be dangerous. Have you considered returning it and looking into a safer and better high-speed blender option? You can check out our current exclusive Vitamix sales here or look at all current blender sales here.
My adult daughter received a deep cut on her thumb today from the blades falling out during her first use. Contrary to some of the comments, in the USA the legal standard for safe products placed in the stream of commerce is not “buyer beware”. Manufacturers have a duty to put safe procucts into the stream of commerce and they have a duty to understand how a product they place into commerce will be used by the consumer. The consumer protection agency that allowed this manufacturer to cure the defect to this product with a warning should be ashamed. It is clear from my research on the internet that this cure did not work, people continue to be injured by this defective product even after the warning has been added. Products that are unsafe are usually the result of manufacture trying to minimize cost and putting the consumer at risk. This product should be taken off the market and Walmart, Target and all other USA sellers of this product should step up and discontinue the sale of this product until the manufactuerer redisigns this product and corrects the defect. In the mean time DO NOT PURCHASE ANY NINJA BLENDER. If you have already purchased this blender take it back for a refund before some unsuspecting family member uses it, long after the directions with the warnings have been discarded, and is injured. THIS PRODUCT IS UNSAFE. Tarashaun, your are being too nice about this defective product, don’t be afraid to stand up for consumers and recommend against the purchase of Ninja model blenders.
Thanks for sharing Gary! I’m so sorry your daughter was injured from this blender. Yes I am not a huge fan of the Ninja models that have that center blade design for this very reason and I do not recommend them.
The bottom of my ninja bullet gets a dirty brown liquid when I’ve finished blending. It also makes such a loud noice that I’m sure it must break noise regulations. Sometimes the noice is so bad it scares me
Sounds like some rust perhaps mixing with a leak? Sounds like you need a new blender and best to upgrade to one that will last. Here are the best Vitamix deals right now.
My two sons almost lost their hand due to the ninja master chef it operated without a lid turned on while my 11 year old was holding the blade in hand and almost lost his whole hand my little food processor wont even turn on inless the lid is on correctly ninja bullet master chef should do the same
Oh my goodness that is terrifying to hear. I’m so sorry that happened to you all! As a mom I can say I am a big fan of both Blendtec and Vitamix because I feel they are safe to have in a house with children. Thank you for sharing your story with my community.
I suffered a serious laceration to my right thumb, not knowing the blades are sharper that a surgical blade. i was lucky i didn’t lose my thumb.
There should be warnings, and definitely shouldn’t be this sharp. A butter knife blade such as the ones used for Nutribullet blenders get the job done just as good. Ninja should be sued for this!
Hi Tyler. Sorry that happened to you! Yes I have also cut my own finger a couple of times on the very sharp center 6 blade piece that they use for their “Total Crushing” containers. They actually did have a recall for this and I believe they updated the manual to be extra careful. I was glad to see they also included many more warning labels all over that jar, extension cord, etc. Still though I find this particular blade to be dangerous, especially with kids in the house. That’s one of the I prefer the Ninja Chef over their other models. ~Tarashaun
We have a Ninja and love it. Some people really worry me, the blades are sharp and will cut vegetables, fruit, and FINGERS! I hope these folks do not use chainsaws, lawn mowers, or other power equipment. Always use caution around sharp pointy tools and equipment.
Ethan
Thanks for sharing Ethan, so glad you love your Ninja! You’re right, I definitely wouldn’t trust myself with a chainsaw 😉 but I don’t want to be sooooo careful with my blender. ~Tarashaun
Used my Ninja for the second time and on first Pulse my frozen banana was rockets out the SIDE of the container sending the banana, dangerous plastic shards (large and small) and smoothie ingredients flying across my kitchen. Through the SIDE OF THE CONTAINER! Super dangerous that could have taken out an eye if it had been through the front and not the side and all from a single frozen banana. I’ll be contacting them and not buying their products again. Buyer beware!!
Hello,
Thank you for sharing this.
My wife was making smoothies this morning and had the same thing happen. A frozen strawberry shattered the side of the blender and shot plastic shards into her chest. She was not injured but it was a very scary incident. Our model is BL780CO 30. I will also be contacting them, do you have a contact number?
Hi Ryan I’m sorry that is a very scary experience. I am so glad to hear she was not injured. Here is the contact number I found on their website: 1-866-826-6941
I was using this blender that I purchased from Costco December 2018. When I was pouring the smoothie I had the container flipped upside down to get out all the liquid. To my surprise the blade fell out and cut my thumb. I am an adult and was very shocked and scared that this happened. Luckily the cut was not deep enough to have to get stitches but this is a huge concern. Anyone using this needs to know, thank god it did not do more damage. Ninja should definitely do a recall in this. This matter is very serious and needs to be addressed ASAP before something worse could happen ie. young person uses it. The blade should definitely have some type of lock , not just fall out easily when placed upside down.
Agreed Maria! They updated the manual and that was it.
I have had my ninja for almost 3 yrs & have never cut myself. Knock on wood! I made sure to caution both of my sons & my husband on the safety of handling the blades when operating it & cleaning it. Especially when the blades are submerged in soapy water! Most people don’t even read the manuals to appliances. I do! lol I want to make sure I am using an appliance the right way safely. I think most people take safety for granted now a days especially with how cars have a lot extra safety features built in. I am always reminding my sons to be safe every day!
Yes, safety is very important when it comes to blenders! Always remember to unplug it before sticking your hand in, always supervisor children, understand how to clean your blender… etc!
Thanks for sharing Demetria!
I cut my finger on it the first day it, I had the blade sitting in the sink to dry and I reached over it to pick something else up and accidentally touched it with the side of my finger. I probably needed stitches but choose not to go to the doctor,it took 3 weeks to heal. I returned it, and am going to buy a Vitamix when I can afford it.
Yikes Dee!! Thanks for sharing! I completely feel you – I cut my finger 3x (out of 10!!) when handling this particular Ninja model when testing for reviews. It’s the most dangerous blender I have ever handled and definitely don’t recommend it. When you’re ready to decide which vitamix to buy be sure to check out my comprehensive review here. 🙂 Warm Hugs ~Tarashaun
Funny, When is a recall not a recall?
I have a Blendtec blender and I love it. I have had it 1 year and mainly I love it. I have however had 1 problem. I was making a smoothie with almond milk and frozen strawberries. I had 457 cycles on the machine. The Ice was fully crushed when it started making a horrible loud noise. It sounded like the whole thing was flying to bits.
I stopped it, I emptied out and took a look. The shaft and blade assembly were very loose and wobbly. I think that what I heard was the splines one the drive shaft were no longer meshing with the shaft on the bottom of the jar. I have always had a habit of keeping one hand on the top. I think it was very lucky that I did because it would likely have gone flying and the contents would have been all over the counter. The bearings on the bottom of the jar had failed but I stopped it in time and it did not leak even a drop.
I called blendtec, gave them the serial number, the jar number and the date of purchase. They told me to just throw the jar in the garbage and they would send me a new one. It arrived exactly as promised and it cost me nothing. It even cam with a new lid.