A popular children's toy sold at major Australian retailers Kmart and Target has been urgently recalled just weeks before Christmas, with authorities warning it could cause serious injury or even death.
What Toy Has Been Recalled?
The product in question is the Pop and Surprise Playset, a toy intended for children under three years of age. The recall was issued after it was discovered that small screws within the toy can come loose. This defect presents a severe choking risk if the small parts are ingested by a child.
A official recall notice stated, "There is a risk of serious injury or death by choking if small parts separate from the toy and a child places them in their mouth." The notice also confirmed that "incidents have occurred" related to this fault, underscoring the urgency of the situation for parents and caregivers.
Key Details and Batch Information
The affected toy was available for purchase both in-store and online at Kmart and Target over a significant period, from January 16, 2020, to November 7, 2025.
However, authorities have clarified that not all units are dangerous. The recall specifically applies to batch 20/25 made in Vietnam. Consumers can identify this batch by locating the product code on the bottom of the toy:
- Kmart code: 42821427
- Target code: 69576577
What Should Consumers Do Now?
Shoppers who own the identified Pop and Surprise Playset are urged to take immediate action to ensure children's safety. The first step is to remove the toy from children's reach immediately and place it back in its box.
Consumers can then return the product to their point of purchase, either a Kmart or Target store, to receive a full refund. The recall alert also provides guidance for those who may have already given the toy away, advising them to "contact the place of purchase if you are unable to return the product or have sold or gifted it to another person."
The news has sparked concern among parents, with many taking to social media to express their alarm. One parent commented, "Looks like we are throwing the kids’ favourite toy out," while another noted their child had just interacted with the toy at daycare, highlighting its widespread presence.
