16 October 2025
Statement in response to UK case accusing Johnson & Johnson of knowingly selling talcum powder contaminated with asbestos.
Helen Lynn, Senior Consultant & Research Fellow (Feminist Toxic Free Futures) said:
“This case should be a wake-up call for regulators and consumers alike. The fact that thousands of people in the UK are now alleging that a household name knowingly sold asbestos-contaminated baby powder is shocking – but sadly, not surprising.
Asbestos and talc are mined from the same rocks, and contamination is a well-documented risk. Talc itself has been linked to ovarian cancer, and asbestos is a known carcinogen with no safe level of exposure. The idea that these substances have been used for decades in products marketed as ‘pure’ and ‘safe’, including baby powder and cosmetics, is deeply troubling.
We urgently need stronger regulation of personal care products and full ingredient transparency. People have the right to know what’s in the products they use on themselves and their children. Manufacturers and governments must act now to ensure that no one else pays the price for corporate negligence.”
Read Helen’s blog on asbestos in talc and makeup. https://www.wen.org.uk/2024/08/06/bbcs-talc-tales-asbestos-in-makeup-and-talcum-powder/
For interviews contact Kate Beard at Wen on 07950585284 or kate.beard@wen.org.uk.
