The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has proposed that cosmetic products containing talc undergo testing with standardized procedures to identify the presence of asbestos, a possible contaminant. This proposal was outlined in documents published on the federal register on Thursday.
WHY IT’S IMPORTANT
Asbestos, recognized as a human carcinogen, poses significant risks to consumers if present in talc-based cosmetic products, as there is no defined “safe level” for exposure to this hazardous substance.
According to the health regulator, implementing this rule could safeguard consumers from asbestos exposure, potentially reducing cases of illnesses like lung and ovarian cancers.
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CONTEXT
Johnson & Johnson is currently facing lawsuits from over 62,000 individuals who claim that the company’s baby powder and other talc-based products were contaminated with asbestos, leading to ovarian and other forms of cancer.
The company is attempting to address these claims by proposing a settlement of around $10 billion through bankruptcy proceedings. However, Johnson & Johnson has denied the accusations, maintaining that its products are safe.
Federal Food
Under its proposed rule, the FDA would mandate that manufacturers test a sample from each batch of talc-containing cosmetic products for asbestos, using techniques like polarized light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy, which generates images through electron beam illumination.
If a manufacturer does not meet the testing and record-keeping requirements, the FDA could classify the product as adulterated under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.
WHAT’S NEXT
The FDA is inviting public and industry feedback on the proposed rule for the next 90 days before finalizing the requirements.
