Eight consumers claim the cans exploded when placed near a stove
of ConsumerAffairs
Eight consumers have filed lawsuits against ConAgra, claiming the companys cooking spray -- Pam -- exploded and caused injuries. The product is used by many cooks to lubricate the bottom of a pan or skillet to prevent food from sticking to cooking services.
At least six lawsuits charging defects were filed in Cook County, Illinois Circuit Court. The complaints allege the aerosol cans are prone to explosion when placed in close proximity to stoves and grills.
Two of the plaintiffs said in their suit that a can of Pam cooking spray was on a shelf over the stove in their Provo, Utah home when it exploded. The plaintiffs said they were boiling water at the time.
Another plaintiff said his can of cooking spray was on the counter next to the stove when it exploded.
Company response
ConAgra dismissed the claims, saying Pam is 100 percent safe and effective when consumers follow the directions.
"Pam Cooking Spray is used safely and properly by millions of people every day and several times a day," the company said in a statement.
But the company also said that the can design cited in the lawsuits is no longer being used. The company reportedly switched to a new can design in 2011.
ConAgra says Pam products contain label instructions about how it should be used. The company admits that Pam is flammable, and because of that, it should not be left on a stove, near a heat source, or in a space above 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
Pam was introduced as a spray cooking oil in 1961.