Johnson & Johnson Consumer Health announced in May 2020 that it would be discontinuing its famous talc-based Baby Powder in the US and Canada .
J&J announced on August 11, 2022 that it will discontinue the production and sale of baby powder based on talc in all countries , and transition to products based on cornstarch.
They still maintain their confidence in the safety and quality of their talc based product. This decision is attributed to economic factors. In a recent announcement, they stated:
We constantly evaluate and optimize the portfolio to position our business for long-term success. This transition will simplify our product offering, deliver sustainable innovations, and meet our customers’, consumers’, and evolving global trend needs.”
Concerns and Lawsuits
Recent reports indicate that Johnson & Johnson faces 38,000 lawsuits relating to claims linking its talc-based powder with cancer. Some of the cases have been won and others have been lost, but most are still pending.
A decade ago, there were concerns about the possible hazards of talcum Powder , including ovarian carcinoma and mesothelioma.
Recent studies, however, have not shown a link between talc and ovarian carcinoma .
It is believed that the mesothelioma connection stems from asbestos being found in some talc deposits, which is a carcinogen. In October of this year, the FDA discovered trace amounts asbestos in a J&J bottle. J&J, as well as two other third parties, could confirm that there was no asbestos in the same test bottle.
Talc pneumoconiosis is another concern.
Alternative Options
The primary purpose of baby powder is to prevent diaper rash.
Other products are available that can perform the same function as without risking harmful side effects.
Cornstarch powders can be a safer and more effective alternative to powders based on talc. You can use cornstarch to make baby powders or the cornstarch you find in your grocery store’s baking aisle. This ingredient is commonly found in many food products, so you can be sure that it’s safe to use on your baby.
You can also use starch powders like arrowroot, tapioca, or rice.
You can use a lotion or cream based on aloe if you don’t want to use powders.
Discuss with your doctor any concerns or questions you might have about your baby and the best way to meet his/her individual needs.
