Kmart Australia initiated multiple urgent product recalls in January 2026, primarily targeting children’s toys and household gel packs due to asbestos risks and toxic chemicals. Consumers must check homes immediately to prevent injuries, especially to children.
Urgent Recalls Sweep Kmart Shelves
Early January 2026 brought a wave of recalls for Kmart’s popular Anko brand items, triggered by independent tests revealing asbestos in play sand and ethylene glycol in long-sold gel packs. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) and Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) coordinated actions, pulling products sold nationwide and online since 2018.
Kmart acted swiftly, halting sales, notifying buyers via emails where possible, and posting alerts in stores. These moves followed New Zealand’s initial asbestos detection in similar sand toys, prompting cross-Tasman recalls. Families with young children represent the highest risk group, as toys and ice packs often end up in little hands.
Public reaction mixed alarm with frustration over longevity—gel packs sold seven years undetected. Retailers emphasized no confirmed injuries yet, but urged proactive disposal.
Full List of Recalled Children’s Sand Products
Asbestos contamination dominated toy recalls, expanding from initial finds. Coloured play sand in sealed tubs tested positive for chrysotile asbestos, a banned carcinogen linked to lung diseases after prolonged exposure. Affected sets, aimed at ages three-plus, involved sensory play like moulding castles or ornaments.
| Product Name | Supplier | Sale Dates | Key Code/Batch | Hazard |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anko Active Sand Tub (14-piece sand castle building set) | HL Toys International (via NZ trigger) | Various 2025 | N/A | Asbestos in sand |
| Anko Magic Sand (Blue) | Same supplier | 2025 | N/A | Asbestos traces |
| Anko Magic Sand (Green) | Same supplier | 2025 | N/A | Asbestos traces |
| Anko Magic Sand (Pink) | Same supplier | 2025 | N/A | Asbestos traces |
| Paw Patrol Sensory Activity Set | HL Toys International | Mid-2025 | N/A | Coloured sand asbestos |
| Bluey Sensory Activity Set | HL Toys International | Mid-2025 | N/A | Coloured sand asbestos |
| Frozen 2 Sensory Activity Set | HL Toys International | Mid-2025 | N/A | Coloured sand asbestos |
| Make Your Own Unicorn Sand Ornament | Anko | Late 2025 | N/A | Loose coloured sand asbestos |
Kmart withdrew all sand-based toys preemptively. Parents should inspect for vibrant, fine-grained sand in kits mimicking kinetic sand—discard if matching descriptions.
Gel Packs: Hidden Toxic Threat
The standout recall hit Anko Small Gel Pak and Anko Large Gel Pak, sold from June 2018 to December 2025. TGA tests confirmed ethylene glycol—a sweet-tasting antifreeze chemical—instead of safe propylene glycol or glycerol. These reusable ice packs, blue gel-filled for injuries or coolers, pose ingestion risks if punctured.
| Product Details | Sizes Affected | Key Codes | Sale Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anko Small Gel Pak | Compact (approx. 10x15cm) | 42010777 | Jun 2018-Dec 2025 |
| Anko Large Gel Pak | Larger (approx. 20x25cm) | 42010784 | Jun 2018-Dec 2025 |
Sold cheaply at 2-5 dollars, millions circulated. Packaging warnings claimed “non-toxic,” misleading buyers. Damage from drops, bites, or age causes leaks—colourless, odourless gel attracts toddlers mistaking it for jelly.
Grave Health Risks Explained
Asbestos exposure via sand inhalation or ingestion risks mesothelioma, asbestosis after years. Children face higher danger from hand-to-mouth play; even brief contact warrants caution.
Ethylene glycol poisoning strikes fast: initial drunkenness, then kidney failure, seizures, coma. Lethal dose tiny—one teaspoon fatal for toddlers. Symptoms emerge hours later: nausea, vomiting, rapid breathing, convulsions. Seek immediate medical help if suspected—antidotes exist early.
| Hazard | Short-Term Effects | Long-Term Risks |
|---|---|---|
| Asbestos Sand | Coughing, eye irritation | Lung cancer, fibrosis |
| Ethylene Glycol | Vomiting, dizziness | Organ failure, death |
Vulnerable groups: infants, pets (dogs love sweet taste). No safe exposure threshold for asbestos.
How to Handle Recalled Items Safely
Follow these steps precisely:
- Inspect immediately: Check toy boxes, craft kits, freezers for matches. Note purchase dates loosely—most recent highest risk.
- Isolate and secure: Place out of children’s/pets’ reach. Do not open sand packs or squeeze gel—avoid dust/liquid release.
- Do not use or donate: Discard if unsure, but returns preferred for verification.
- Return to Kmart: Bring to any store—no receipt needed—for full refund. Online buyers contact 1800 124 125 or online form.
- Clean exposure areas: Wipe surfaces with damp cloths; vacuum asbestos sand risks fibres. Wash hands/clothes post-handling.
- Monitor health: Consult doctor/GP if contact suspected, mention product.
Kmart pledges refunds within days, tracking via receipts optional.
Behind the Scenes: Supply Chain Failures
Recalls expose gaps: overseas suppliers like HL Toys skipped rigorous Australian testing. Sand sourced cheaply, asbestos from contaminated ore. Gel packs evaded checks despite “food-safe” claims—lab audits rare for low-cost items.
Kmart’s Anko private label cuts costs but amplifies risks when issues arise. Past recalls (teethers, bouncers) show pattern. ACCC pushes mandatory third-party testing; TGA eyes chemical labelling.
Consumers tip: Scan Product Safety Australia site weekly. Buy reputable brands; question “bargain” imports.
Kmart’s Response and Your Rights
Kmart apologised publicly, vowing supplier audits and testing protocols. Stores display posters; website lists recalls prominently. No lawsuits yet, but class actions loom if harms emerge.
Australian Consumer Law guarantees refunds/replacements for unsafe goods. Keep packaging/photos. Report incidents to ACCC hotline 1300 302 502.
Moving Forward: Safer Shopping Lessons
This cluster underscores vigilance: cheap thrills hide hazards. Parents, prioritise certified toys (AS/NZS standards). Retailers, invest in upfront safety.
Lance Evans is a contributor at CSKHYBER.co.nz covering New Zealand and Australia news, with a focus on trending updates and public-interest stories.