Kmart gel packs recalled because of risk of potentially deadly substance

The Anko brand Large Gel Pak is being recalled by Kmart because of the risk the products may contain the toxic substance ethylene glycol. Photo / Supplied

Gel packs sold at Kmart have been recalled because of the risk they may include a toxic substance.

The Anko-branded Small Gel Pak and the Large Gel Pak are the two products being recalled because they may contain ethylene glycol rather than glycerol.

Ethylene glycol is a toxic substance that is colourless and odourless and is primarily used in anti-freeze, coolants and de-icing fluids.

The Anko brand Small Gel Pak is being recalled by Kmart. Photo / Supplied

Glycerol is a non-toxic ingredient that can be found in moisturisers, cosmetics, medicine and some food.

“If packaging becomes damaged, ethylene glycol can leak out and, if swallowed, can cause irreversible injuries or death,” the recall notice said.

The gel packs can be used for hot and cold therapy to help relieve pain in muscles and joints and are popular for sports injuries.

Anyone who purchased an Anko Gel Pak from Kmart is urged to stop using it immediately and keep it out of the reach of children.

“Return the product to a Kmart store for a full refund,” the notice said.

The products have been sold at Kmart NZ stores around the country and also via the store’s website: kmart.co.nz

The affected packs have been available since 2018 and were being sold up until Christmas Eve last month.

The product identifiers are:

• Anko Small Gel Pak sold from 25/06/2018-24/12/2025. Keycode: 42010777.
• Anko Large Gel Pak sold from 25/06/2018-21/12/2025.

Members of the public who may have bought one of these packs can contact the Kmart customer service number on 0800 945 995.

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