Urgent Alert: A popular Kmart household item is under recall due to a serious health risk. This recall affects both the Anko Small Gel Pak and the Large Gel Pak, items many of us rely on during heatwaves or for minor injury relief. But here's what you need to know to stay safe...
Kmart has issued a critical warning about these gel packs (product codes 42010777 and 42010784). The reason? They may contain ethylene glycol, a highly toxic substance. If ingested, even in small amounts, ethylene glycol can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps.
And this is the part most people miss: Severe poisoning from ethylene glycol can lead to serious damage to the brain, heart, or kidneys, and can even be fatal. The danger doesn't stop there. According to the recall notice, if the packaging of these gel packs is damaged, ethylene glycol can leak out, posing a risk. The affected products can be identified by specific numbers printed in white text near the barcode on the gel pack itself.
The affected small gel packs were sold between March 18, 2014, and December 10, 2025. The large gel packs were sold between February 11, 2014, and December 10, 2025.
Kmart's advice is clear: if you own one of these products, stop using it immediately and keep it out of reach of children. If ethylene glycol is swallowed, it can cause irreversible injuries or even death.
The good news? Kmart is offering a full refund for the returned products. For further information, you can contact Kmart Customer Service at 1800 124 125 from Monday to Friday, between 7 am and 6 pm (AEST).
Controversy Alert: It's worth noting that ethylene glycol is a common ingredient in antifreeze. Its presence in a product designed for household use raises questions about safety standards and oversight. What are your thoughts? Do you think the recall was handled promptly? Share your opinion in the comments below!
