Kmart Australia has issued an urgent recall for its Anko-branded reusable coffee cups. The recall follows a reported injury involving the use of the product.
The product recall covers double-walled coffee cups with lids sold in-store and online between 18 December 2024 and 7 April 2025. The reusable cups are also stocked at Target stores nationwide.
The cups were available in four colours—sunset, sage, black, and rose gold. Each unit retailed for $8 and was promoted as an affordable, eco-friendly beverage container.
Defective Lid Design Causes Safety Concern
The lid lacks a pressure release valve. This can result in a rapid release and pop-off when hot liquids are poured in.
According to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), users are at risk of burns from hot liquids or steam. “An injury has occurred,” the ACCC stated in its official product safety notice.
The cups pose a hazard due to the rapid lid release. The design flaw could cause serious harm if the user comes into contact with hot fluid or steam.
Figure 1: The double-walled coffee cup lids could pop-off when hot liquids are poured in
Kmart and Target Urge Customers to Act
Kmart has requested customers immediately stop using the cups and return them. A full refund is available, even without a receipt.
“Contact the store of purchase if you are unable to return the product to the store,” Kmart advised.
The department store also asked customers to notify them if the cup had been resold or gifted. “Tell us if you have sold or gifted the product to another person,” the company stated.
Figure 2: Kmart’s statement on their Official Instagram handle
A Kmart spokesperson added, “We take the quality and safety of our products very seriously.”
Target stores have also removed the defective cups from their retail and online channels. Customers who bought from Target are eligible for the same return and refund process.
Broader Safety Message from the ACCC
The ACCC emphasised that consumer safety is the top priority. It urged consumers to report any incidents involving faulty or dangerous goods.
The product recall was listed on the ACCC’s Product Safety Australia platform to ensure national awareness. This aims to reach every potential consumer and prevent further injuries.
The commission continues to investigate other products that may pose safety risks, especially those involving hot liquids and sealed containers.
Previous Kmart Recalls Raise Concerns
This is not the only product recall linked to Kmart’s Anko brand in recent times.
In March 2025, Kmart recalled its $10 Glass Flip Pickle Jar. The jar was sold between 15 February 2023 and 3 March 2025.
Several customers reported the jar “exploded” when used with fermented foods. This was attributed to gas build-up caused by fermentation. One customer stated she “nearly lost an eye” after the product shattered unexpectedly.
Some users had purchased multiple jars, all of which exploded under similar conditions.
The ACCC cited the risk of serious injury due to glass shattering under pressure. This incident led to widespread concern over the safety of household storage items.
Figure 3: Another Acko’s product was recalled earlier month
Christmas Quilt Covers Also Recalled
In a separate recall, Kmart removed its Christmas-themed quilt cover sets from sale in late 2024.
Customers complained of a strong odour resembling “jet fuel” upon opening the product packaging. This raised health concerns.
The ACCC stated that the quilt covers had not cured properly during manufacturing. The chemical odour could trigger skin irritation and respiratory reactions in sensitive individuals.
Several people reported allergic reactions and required hospital treatment. The affected products were part of Kmart’s Anko bedding range.
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Continuing Product Safety Monitoring
Kmart is continuing to work with the ACCC to address product safety. It has reminded consumers to check the Product Safety Australia website for updates.
The department store encourages customers to report product concerns directly to their customer care line.
The ACCC has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that Australian households are protected from product hazards.
Consumers who have purchased the recalled coffee cups, pickle jars, or bedding items are advised to return them immediately.
A full refund is available at any Kmart or Target store, and assistance is offered to those unable to visit in person.
