Kmart has issued an urgent recall for a trendy kitchen item, the Anko Glass Flip Pickle Jar, which has gained popularity on social media for its clever design intended to separate pickles from their juice. Customers are advised to “immediately stop” using the product following reports that it can explode due to a dangerous build-up of gas.
Originally launched as a fun and innovative way to store pickled fruits and vegetables, the product is now under scrutiny after multiple incidents of injury were reported. The recall, announced on March 20, 2025, affects jars sold between February 15, 2023, and March 3, 2025. The warning stems from the fact that the jars can break when used to store certain fruits or vegetables in liquid, leading to potential explosions, especially with fermented foods.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) Product Safety Authority confirmed that serious injuries, including lacerations, have occurred due to the jars exploding or their lids becoming difficult to open under pressure. Authorities stated, “The affected product can break when used to store certain fruit or vegetables in liquid,” emphasizing the risks associated with fermentation that can cause excessive gas buildup within the jars.
Kmart urges all customers to return the potentially hazardous jars to their nearest store for a full refund, irrespective of whether they possess a receipt. The company has reassured customers that safety is a priority, stating, “We take the quality and safety of our products very seriously, which is why we would like to advise you of a product safety recall.” Customers can also reach Kmart at 1800 124 125 for additional information regarding the recall.
Target, which also sold the Anko Glass Flip Pickle Jar, can be contacted at 1300 753 567 for similar inquiries. Both retailers are working to ensure a smooth refund process for concerned consumers.
The popularity of the Anko Glass Flip Pickle Jar surged on platforms such as TikTok, where users showcased the unique ability of the jar to drain liquids when flipped. However, the brand's reputation is now in jeopardy as numerous customers reported instances of the jar bursting unexpectedly in their refrigerators.
One shopper, identified as Sally, recounted a frightening experience after purchasing three jars to store canned beetroot. “Only to discover it later exploded, leaving the inside of her fridge covered in staining dark purple juice,” she lamented. Another customer, Sandra, described a similar incident she faced last November, recalling, “I was packing my groceries in the fridge... when I heard a loud bang and glass flying everywhere. I thought my kitchen light had exploded.” Fortunately, she was unharmed, but the incident highlights the risks involved with using the jars.
Disturbingly, before the official alert was issued, Kmart had already cautioned users on its website that the jars were “not suitable for beetroot” and warned against using them for fermenting foods. Despite the warnings, many customers were still unaware of the potential hazards. Following the launch of the recall, additional voices expressed skepticism about the jar’s safety, with some consumers opting to continue using it. “Definitely not returning; I’ll use common sense,” one customer commented about their personal experience with the pickling jar.
The recall poses a significant reminder of the importance of consumer safety, especially regarding trending products. As social media continues to influence shopping habits, it is vital for manufacturers and retailers to prioritize clear communication about product safety to avoid dangerous situations.
In conclusion, the Kmart recall of the Anko Glass Flip Pickle Jar illustrates the delicate balance between innovative kitchen solutions and consumer safety. Customers are advised to act swiftly and return the jars while ensuring their kitchens are free from potential hazards. As Kmart and Target address the fallout from this incident, shoppers are reminded to exercise caution and stay informed about the products they choose to bring into their homes.
