Kmart Australia has issued an urgent recall for its Anko-branded double-walled coffee cups with lids, following safety concerns that have already led to at least one reported injury. The recall affects cups sold in-store and online between December 18, 2024, and April 7, 2025, at both Kmart and Target stores nationwide.
The cups, which retail for $8, come in four colors: sunset, sage, black, and rose gold. They were marketed as eco-friendly beverage containers, but a significant design flaw has raised alarms. The lids of these cups lack a pressure release valve, which can cause them to rapidly release and pop off when filled with hot liquids. This defect poses a serious risk of burns from hot liquid or steam if the lid unexpectedly ejects.
According to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), the risk of injury is substantial. “An injury has occurred,” the ACCC stated in its official product safety notice. The commission emphasized that consumers should immediately stop using the product and return it for a full refund, regardless of whether they have a receipt. Kmart has echoed this message, urging customers to act quickly.
A Kmart spokesperson said, “We take the quality and safety of our products very seriously. Please contact us if you are unable to return the product or have sold or gifted it to another person.” Target stores have also removed the defective cups from their shelves and online platforms, ensuring that customers who purchased from Target can go through the same return and refund process.
This recall is not an isolated incident for Kmart. Just last month, the retailer recalled its $10 Glass Flip Pickle Jar, which was sold between February 15, 2023, and March 3, 2025. The pickle jar reportedly exploded when used with fermented foods due to gas build-up, with customers claiming they suffered injuries, including one woman who said she “nearly lost an eye” after the jar shattered unexpectedly.
In addition to these recalls, Kmart also faced scrutiny for its Christmas-themed quilt cover sets, which were pulled from sale at the end of 2024 due to complaints of a strong chemical odor resembling “jet fuel.” The ACCC noted that these bedding items had not cured properly during manufacturing, leading to allergic reactions and hospitalizations for some customers.
The ACCC has reiterated its commitment to consumer safety, stating that the recall of the Anko coffee cups is part of a broader initiative to monitor products that may pose safety risks. Consumers are encouraged to report any incidents involving faulty or dangerous goods, and the recall notice for the coffee cups has been made available on the ACCC’s Product Safety Australia platform to ensure widespread awareness.
As part of its ongoing efforts to maintain product safety, Kmart is working closely with the ACCC to address these issues. The department store has reminded consumers to check the Product Safety Australia website for updates and to report any product concerns directly to their customer care line.
For those who have purchased the recalled Anko double-walled coffee cups, the process for returning the product is straightforward. Customers can take the cups back to any Kmart or Target store for a full refund. If individuals are unable to return the items in person, Kmart encourages them to reach out to their customer service team for assistance.
The urgency of this recall highlights the importance of product safety in the retail sector. With several incidents related to Kmart’s Anko brand in recent months, consumers are reminded to remain vigilant about the products they use in their homes. The ACCC continues to investigate other products that may pose safety risks, particularly those involving hot liquids and sealed containers.
In summary, the recall of the Anko double-walled coffee cups serves as a critical reminder for consumers to stay informed about product safety and to act promptly when recalls are issued. With the potential for serious injury highlighted by the ACCC, customers are urged to heed the warnings and ensure their safety when using household items.
