CPSC recall 05-258, announced September 7, 2005, covers Ultimate Chopper™ food processor (about 1.5 million units). The interlocking lid assembly on the appliance can malfunction, allowing the food processor to be operated when the lid is off. The notice cites 17 incident reports and 17 injuries. Consumers should immediately inspect their Ultimate Chopper food processor to determine if the interlocking lid is functioning properly. Recall contact: call (800) 819-6297, or go to www.ultimatechopper.com.
Compare the model on your label, then check any serial numbers, date codes, and exclusions in the notice. A model match alone does not confirm that your unit is included.
The CPSC data does not provide a discrete model-number list for this record. Compare the product description and identification details on the official notice.
Which products are included?
The Ultimate Chopper is a compact, single-speed food processor that can also function as a blender when an optional attachment is used with the base. The product is comprised of a white base unit with a 600-watt motor (750 watts peak power), a plastic blade assembly that contains two stainless steel blades, a chopping bowl, and a clear interlocking lid. The name "Ultimate Chopper" is stamped on the product's base. The optional blender attachment is sold separately.
Confirm these details on the official CPSC noticeWhy it was recalled
The interlocking lid assembly on the appliance can malfunction, allowing the food processor to be operated when the lid is off. This can result in a laceration or fingertip amputation hazard, if consumers insert their hands into the food processor.
Incidents and injuries
CPSC and Ultimate Chopper LLC have received 17 reports of injuries resulting from a failure of the interlocking lid assembly or the blade assembly breaking. Five of those injured required stitches or surgery, and the remaining 12 consumers received cuts or scratches.
Official remedy
Consumers should immediately inspect their Ultimate Chopper food processor to determine if the interlocking lid is functioning properly. Consumers should remove the lid and blade assembly and test to see if the unit will operate without the lid on. If the unit turns on when the lid is removed, consumers should stop using it immediately and contact Ultimate Chopper LLC to receive a free replacement unit. Also, if blade assemblies are worn, damaged or broken for any reason, consumers should stop using the unit and contact the company to receive a free replacement blade assembly. Consumers also can access an instructional video demonstrating how to inspect their Ultimate Chopper at http://demo.ultimatechopper.com
Product and sales details
- Brand
- Ultimate Chopper
- Product type
- Food processors
- Recall number
- 05-258
- Units
- About 1.5 million
- Manufactured in
- China
- Sold at / sales period
- The Ultimate Chopper™ has been marketed and distributed through television infomercial sales, the firm's Web site, and various retailers nationwide, from March 2002 through July 2005, for about $40.
- Distributor
- Ultimate Chopper LLC, of Los Angeles, Calif.
Ultimate Chopper™ food processor
CPSC product type: Food Dehydrator/Preserver/Processor
Recall contact information
Call Ultimate Chopper LLC toll-free at (800) 819-6297 between 6 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's Web site at www.ultimatechopper.com
Verify phone numbers, hours, and websites on the current CPSC notice before contacting the firm.
Know someone who has one?
Recalls only work when owners hear about them. Send this notice to family or friends who might own the same product.
