A popular grilling tool is being pulled from kitchens across the country just as millions of Americans prepare to fire up their barbecues for the Fourth of July. Federal safety officials have announced a large recall of Cuisinart grill brushes over concerns that they could cause people to swallow metal bristles.
The recall was announced by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. It covers more than 1.7 million grill brushes made by Conair and sold under the Cuisinart brand, one of the biggest recalls to hit the outdoor cooking market ahead of the holiday weekend.
The danger lies in the bristles. Officials said the small metal wire bristles can come off the brushes and stick to a grill and to food, creating an ingestion hazard for anyone who then eats from the grill without noticing the stray wire.
The recall did not come out of nowhere. Conair said it was aware of at least 54 reports of bristles detaching from the brushes, including three cases in which consumers swallowed a metal bristle and had to seek medical treatment to have it removed from their throat or digestive tract.
A wide range of products is affected. The recall involves numerous Cuisinart metal wire bristle grill brushes with black plastic, stainless steel and wood handles, along with several brushes sold as part of larger Cuisinart grill tool sets, spanning many different model numbers.
The brushes were widely available over many years. They were sold at retailers including Burlington, TJ Maxx and Ross, as well as online through sites such as Amazon and Cuisinart.com, from June 2009 through March 2026, for prices ranging from about 8 to 20 dollars.
Officials had a clear message for anyone who owns one. Consumers should stop using the recalled grill brushes immediately, and Conair is offering a full refund or a Cuisinart.com credit, with details available by contacting the company or checking the product recalls section of its website.
The timing gives the warning added weight. With the July 4 weekend a peak moment for backyard grilling, the recall serves as a reminder for cooks to check their equipment and to inspect grill grates for any loose bristles before serving food to family and friends.