Blenders, such as the Ninja, are a revolutionary addition to many people’s kitchen arsenals. Despite their popularity and cult-like following, devices like the Ninja blender pose inherent risks to users. However, in addition to the fundamental dangers that all blenders pose, many consumers have expressed concerns over defective Ninja blenders and the significant risk of serious injury these devices present.

As we’ve discussed in prior posts, companies that design, manufacture, or sell defective products can be held liable for any injuries that their products cause. Those who have suffered injuries from a recalled, defective, or unreasonably unsafe kitchen appliance may have a claim under relevant product liability laws.

Are Ninja Blenders Dangerous?

By design, blenders are dangerous because they feature sharp, fast-moving blades often designed for grinding, grating, crushing, and pureeing various food items. However, some blenders may be more dangerous than others, especially those with defective parts.

While many companies neglect to highlight the limitations of their blenders, certain items and conditions significantly increase the likelihood of an injury. For example, putting hot liquids in a Ninja can create steam and pressure in the blender that can lead to an explosion-like reaction when the blender is opened. Moreover, blending certain frozen foods or ice can cause the blender container to shatter-sending shards of plastic and glass across the room.

Following a series of recalls several years ago, SharkNinja, the manufacturer of Ninja blenders, is once again subject to claims that their blenders are defective and dangerous. A defining characteristic of Ninja blenders is their “total crushing technology,” a series of stacked blades mounted at varying heights. The company touts that the total crushing technology allows the blender to cut through ice and frozen ingredients in seconds.

A dangerous pitfall to Ninja’s “total crushing technology” is that the blade assembly is not attached or anchored to the canister, increasing the risk of lacerations or other injuries. Previously, the company recalled 12 blender models after over 50 reports of lacerations. Although any blender can cause injuries, most of these injuries arise when consumers wash the devices. However, the potential problem with Ninja blenders is more serious in that consumers report injuries from detached blade pieces while the blender is in use.

What Type of Injuries Can Ninja Blenders Cause?

Blenders can be dangerous, so companies should provide clear warnings about how to safely use, maintain, and clean their products. Like any other motorized kitchen appliance with dangerous features, due care and proper use can prevent harm to the user. However, some products contain inherently dangerous elements that cannot be avoided even with the utmost care.

Consumers are reporting that they have suffered serious injuries from the blades of their Ninjas after the canisters unexpectedly shot off their base. Other users alleged that their Ninja blenders exploded, sending shards of broken plastic across their kitchen.

These events can lead to severe blender injuries, such as

• Lacerations to hands, arms, faces, and upper bodies stemming from the detachment of the Ninja’s blades;
• Serious burns and disfigurements from explosions after liquids became overheated in the blender; and
• Injuries to the teeth related to the unexpected detachment of the blender’s base.

These injuries can cause permanent disfigurement, long-term disability, and potentially death. Thus, it is imperative that consumers understand the risks of using a Ninja blender, as well as what their rights are in the event they are injured by the device.

Does SharkNinja Admit That the Ninja Blender is Dangerous?

In response to criticism over Ninja blenders, SharkNinja claimed that reports of dangers, defects, and injuries are rare. They contend that most injuries occurred because the consumer failed to follow the blender’s operating instructions and warnings. However, some consumers report that their Ninja burst when it was only in use for 20 seconds.

Further, the company exhibits a concerning hypocrisy as they advise not to put hot liquids in their blending vessels; however, until recently, the recipe books included in the packaging contained recipes for hot soup and coffee. A primary concern is that despite updated warnings on its newer products, many consumers may own a Ninja blender without knowing its inherent dangers.

Can Consumers Sue SharkNinja if They Were Hurt By a Defective Blender?

Yes, those hurt by a Ninja blender may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer, SharkNinja. Consumers may be able to pursue a product liability lawsuit against SharkNinja based on a design, manufacturing, or marketing defect.

Many product liability claims against kitchen device manufacturers involve allegations that the company ignored or concealed its knowledge of defects or unreasonable dangers in its products in an effort to prioritize the company’s financial standing. In these cases, the victim must show that the company’s acts or omissions were the direct or proximate result of the victim’s injuries or damages.

In the context of Ninja blenders, consumers may have a viable claim if they establish that the blenders are unreasonably dangerous because of their fast-moving blades, which can and have unexpectedly exploded when used in their normal and intended way. Typically, in these cases, the claimant would need to establish that other reasonable consumers would not have any reason to expect that their Ninja would separate or explode, and they would not have been able to detect the defect or prevent the dangerous event.

Of course, large companies like SharkNinja are financially incentivized to deny these claims. Thus, they work with experienced lawyers to defend any lawsuits filed against the company, hoping to avoid liability at any cost. Consumers who believe they have a product liability claim against SharkNinja or any other manufacturer are advised to consult with a personal injury lawyer to develop an effective recovery strategy.