A widening asbestos scare has prompted another recall of children’s coloured sand, with products imported from China and sold by SilverStarCrafts between Dec. 2, 2020, and Nov. 26, 2025, now pulled from shelves.
Laboratory tests found traces of tremolite and chrysotile asbestos in some samples. Products affected span multiple pouch sizes and kits, including Sand Art Party Packs, Sand Art Single Packs, Sand Art Bottles, and Funny Face Sand Art Bottles.
The recall follows last month’s discovery of asbestos in sand products sold at major retailers such as Kmart and Officeworks, which triggered school closures and a joint investigation by the ACCC and Australian Border Force.
SilverStarCrafts confirmed that it is recalling the product and has withdrawn the sale of these sands. It is also offering a refund on any unused products.
It also said that they have undertaken their own independent tests, and results indicate trace amounts of naturally occurring tremolite and chrysotile fibres in some samples.
“Experts advise the safety risk associated with these products is very low,” a spokesperson of the business told The Epoch Times.
“We are sad and disappointed this has come about, but very much appreciate our customers and their business with us over the years in our small family business.”
Kmart Issues Fresh Warning
A day earlier, Kmart also announced a new safety alert after asbestos was detected in additional children’s play sand products.
This separate recall covers sensory activity kits themed around Frozen, Paw Patrol, and Bluey, supplied by Hong Kong firm HL Toys.
Kmart has stated the sand tubs “may contain asbestos,” urging customers not to open them under any circumstances. Anyone who has already opened a tub has been advised to stop using it immediately.
Households have been advised to seal the tubs in plastic bags and dispose of them according to local asbestos rules, rather than placing them in general waste. Refunds will be provided with proof of purchase.
Earlier in December, Kmart pulled its Anko “make your own unicorn sand ornaments” kits over similar concerns.
Schools Close as Checks Continue
The alarm intensified on Nov. 17 when more than 60 public schools and preschools in Canberra were shut after testing uncovered asbestos contamination in widely used coloured sand.
“In line with our regulatory obligations, and in the interest of the safety of our students, staff, and community, we have decided to close some schools that have this product to allow for assessment clean-up and remediation to occur,” the ACT Education Directorate said.
Asbestos has been banned in Australia since 2003, and long-term exposure can lead to asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.
The contaminated sand products were sold nationally between 2020 and 2025 through retailers including Officeworks, Educating Kids, Modern Teaching Aids, and Zart Art.
Supplier Educational Colours initiated the recall once contamination was confirmed.
