In 2019, the FDA announced the discovery of asbestos in a sample of Johnson's Baby Powder, prompting Johnson & Johnson to initiate a voluntary recall of approximately 33,000 bottles of the product. The recall was a precautionary measure after tests confirmed the presence of the carcinogenic mineral in the widely used talcum powder.

This finding raised significant health concerns due to asbestos's known link to cancer, particularly mesothelioma. The incident sparked widespread media coverage and led to a noticeable decline in Johnson & Johnson's share price, highlighting the serious implications of asbestos contamination in consumer products.

Read the full articles here: The FDA, The Independent, Consumer Notice, Eco Watch, Asbestos.com, Healthcare, BC Legal, News Groove.

I understand today’s recall may be concerning to all those individuals who may have used the affected lot of baby powder. I want to assure everyone that the agency takes these concerns seriously and that we are committed to our mandate of protecting the public health.

Ned Sharpless, M.D.

Acting FDA Commissioner | 18/10/2019