Russian supermarkets have been forced to issue a recall for a popular bottled water brand following reports that the company’s World Cup-themed water bottles were starting fires.
The football-shaped bottles, designed to commemorate the Russia 2018 World Cup which will kick off in two weeks, works like a magnifying glass when left in direct sunlight, concentrating the sun’s heat and potentially inflaming anything in its vicinity.
Reporters who tested the bottle found that it could set paper, matches and even shoes on fire.
Russian supermarker chains Ashan and Lenta pulled the bottles from their shelves after videos of the fire-starting bottles began spreading on social media.
But the company responsible for manufacturing them is standing by their product. The bottle’s label, a spokesperson for IDS Borjomi said, clearly stated that the bottles should be stored at room temperature and away from direct sunlight.