Kmart New Zealand has issued a nationwide recall of Anko Small Gel Pak and Anko Large Gel Pak products after it was discovered they may contain ethylene glycol, a highly toxic substance.
The recall applies to products sold both in Kmart NZ stores and online at kmart.co.nz over an extended period, with the small gel packs sold between 25 June 2018 and 24 December 2025, and the large gel packs sold between 25 June 2018 and 21 December 2025 .
According to the recall notice, the hazard arises if the gel pack packaging becomes damaged, allowing ethylene glycol to leak out. If swallowed, the substance can cause irreversible injury or death. Consumers are being urged to stop using the gel packs immediately and keep them out of reach of children.
Kmart has advised customers to return the affected gel packs to any Kmart store for a full refund. For further information, customers can contact Kmart Customer Service on 0800 945 995 or via the company’s website. Additional details about this and other consumer product recalls are available through the New Zealand Government’s recalls website.
I’m so relieved at this wise move by KMart. Whenever I break a gel pack, the first thing I do is lick the mess off my fingers or the floor, so it’s good to know that someone has got my back. Thank you so much.
Haha