FDA proposes standardized testing for asbestos in talc cosmetics, Reuters reports

Investing.com — The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is suggesting that cosmetics containing talc undergo standardized testing to detect any presence of asbestos, a potential contaminant, Reuters reported on Thursday, citing documents posted on the federal register.

Asbestos is recognized as a human carcinogen and can pose health risks to consumers if found in talc-based cosmetic products.

There is no established “safe level” of exposure to asbestos. If the proposed rule is finalized, it could help shield consumers from harmful exposure to asbestos, potentially leading to a decrease in illnesses such as lung and ovarian cancers, according to the health regulator.

Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:), the healthcare giant, is currently dealing with lawsuits from over 62,000 claimants. These individuals allege that the company’s baby powder and other talc products were contaminated with asbestos, leading to ovarian and other forms of cancer.

The FDA’s proposed rule would mandate manufacturers to test a sample from each batch of a talc-containing cosmetic product for asbestos.

The testing methods could include polarized light and transmission electron microscopy, which creates images by shining samples with an electron beam.

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