Starbucks mugs recalled, can break when overheated: How to get a refund

Nestlé USA is recalling more than 440,000 metallic Starbucks-branded holiday mugs because they can overheat or break when microwaved or filled with extremely hot liquid, posing burn or laceration hazards.

According to a March 21 announcement on the U.S. Consumer Safety Protection website, the metallic mugs were included in 2023 Holiday Starbucks-branded gift sets. The mugs were sold in 11 oz. and 16 oz. sizes and the designs include the Starbucks Holiday Gift Set with 2 mugs, Starbucks classic Hot cocoa and Mug, Starbucks Peppermint and Classic Hot Cocoas and Mug, and Starbucks Holiday Blend Coffee and Mug.

The mugs weren’t sold at Starbucks stores. They were sold online and in-store at Target and Walmart, and through Nexcom military retail outlets nationwide from November 2023 through January 2024 for about $10, $13 or $20, depending on the gift set.

According to the agency, there have been 12 incidents of the mugs overheating or breaking resulting in 10 injuries, including nine severe burns/blisters on fingers or hands, and one cut on a finger. One incident required medical attention.

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled mugs, and either return them to the place of purchase or contact Nestlé USA for a full refund. Consumers can receive a cash or gift card refund when they return the mug to the store where purchased, or a check from Nestlé USA when they visit https://www.nestleusa.com/info/contact-us-landing, scroll down to “Leave Us a Message”, click on “Complaint”, select “Recall” from the drop down menu, attach a photo of the mug or the gift set identifier code, complete the form and hit send. Proof of purchase, such as a receipt, is not required to receive a full refund.