crate and barrel French Kitchen Marble Butter Keeper/K51605M – Product Liability Lawyer

2026-03-12 – A consumer reported that a child suffered severe illness after using a Crate and Barrel French Kitchen Marble Butter Keeper, according to a Health Hazard incident filed with the CPSC's SaferProducts.gov database. The report describes a design defect that allowed mold growth inside the product, leading to an emergency department visit.

Product Details

Brand Name: Crate and Barrel
Manufacturer: Crate and Barrel
Model: K51605M
Retailer: Crate and Barrel South Coast Plaza
Incident Report Number: 5918108
Severity Type Name: Emergency Department Treatment Received
Severity Type ID: 9

Incident Overview

According to a report filed on December 19, 2025, with the CPSC SaferProducts database (Report ID 5918108), a 5-year-old child became severely ill after using a French Kitchen Marble Butter Keeper purchased from Crate and Barrel. The product was used according to the care instructions, including daily water changes. Within six days of use, significant mold growth developed inside the butter keeper.

The child experienced a high fever of 106°F, bloody stool with green mucus, and abdominal pain. The parent sought medical care at three urgent care visits and one emergency room visit. The reporter stated they were able to replicate the mold growth under identical conditions and documented it with photographs. The incident report identifies a design defect related to material porosity or design as the likely cause, posing a health risk to children.

Safety Concerns

Immediate Dangers: The presence of mold inside a food storage product can lead to ingestion of mycotoxins, which may cause acute symptoms such as fever, gastrointestinal distress, and bloody stools, as reported in this incident. Children are particularly vulnerable due to their smaller body mass and developing immune systems.

Long-Term Risks: Repeated exposure to mold, even in small amounts, can contribute to chronic respiratory issues, allergies, and immune system sensitization. For children, prolonged exposure may have developmental implications.

Who Might Be Affected: Any consumer using the butter keeper is at risk, but young children are most susceptible because they may consume larger quantities of contaminated butter relative to their body weight and have less robust immune defenses.

Environmental Triggers: The design of the product, which involves water immersion to create an air seal, combined with the porous nature of marble, creates a damp environment that promotes mold growth. Even with daily water changes, moisture can become trapped in the material, providing a breeding ground for microorganisms.

What Our Clients Say

What Consumers Should Do

Stop Using Immediately: Discontinue use of the French Kitchen Marble Butter Keeper, especially if you have young children or immunocompromised individuals in the household. Mold growth may not be visible to the naked eye.

Preserve the Product: Keep the product in its current condition, including any remaining water or butter, as it may serve as evidence if you need to pursue a claim. Do not clean or alter it.

Document the Incident: Take photographs of any visible mold, retain receipts and packaging, and note the dates of use and any symptoms experienced by household members.

Seek Medical Attention: If you or a family member develop symptoms such as fever, gastrointestinal issues, or respiratory problems after using the product, consult a healthcare provider immediately.

Report to the CPSC: File a report on SaferProducts.gov to help regulators identify potential patterns of harm.

Check for Recalls: Monitor CPSC.gov for any recall announcements related to this product.

Consumers who have suffered injury or property damage may want to speak with a product liability attorney about their options.

Manufacturer's Response

Crate and Barrel stated, "We appreciate this customer's feedback and will look into their concern. Crate & Barrel utilizes third party, CPSC approved labs to test its products for safety and compliance with applicable laws and standards."

Legal Help Available

H Law Group represents consumers injured by defective products throughout California. Our product liability attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. We offer free consultations to discuss your case and legal options. If you or a loved one was injured by the Crate and Barrel French Kitchen Marble Butter Keeper/K51605M or a similar product, contact H Law Group at (888) 499-4948 for a free, no-obligation consultation.