Asbestos Concerns Prompt Baby Powder Recall

Dynarex Corporation has recalled baby powder due to potential asbestos contamination, affecting 12 states and products sold on Amazon.

At a Glance

Dynarex baby powder has been recalled in 12 states due to asbestos contamination
The affected products were distributed on or after March 11, 2024, with expiration date of December 28, 2026
Consumers are advised to stop using the product and return for a full refund.
No illnesses have been reported, but asbestos exposure can lead to serious health risks.

Recall Details and Affected Products

Dynarex Corporation has issued a recall for its baby powder due to potential asbestos contamination. The recall affects 62 cases of Dynacare Baby Powder, item number 4875, Batch Number B 051. The product was distributed on or after March 11, 2024, with an expiration date of December 28, 2026. The recall impacts products sold in 12 states: Illinois, Alabama, Kentucky, Arkansas, Colorado, Kentucky, North Carolina, Wisconsin, New Jersey, Florida, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Washington. The affected baby powder is packaged in 14 oz. plastic bottles and may have also been sold on Amazon.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) discovered the asbestos contamination through a routine sampling program. In response, Dynarex Corporation has ceased distribution of the product and is investigating the contamination. No illnesses have been reported thus far, but the company is taking precautionary measures to protect consumers.

Baby powder recall as warning issued nationwide https://t.co/WsXndOneGN

— Newsweek (@Newsweek) September 20, 2024

Consumer Action and Health Risks

Consumers who have purchased the affected Dynacare Baby Powder are strongly advised to discontinue use right away. The product can be returned in exchange for a refund. For questions or concerns, consumers can contact Dynarex Corporation at 888-396-2739 or 845-365-8200, or email [email protected].

The potential presence of asbestos in baby powder raises significant health concerns. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral often found near talc, which is commonly used in cosmetic products. Long-term asbestos exposure can lead to serious diseases such as asbestosis, pleural disease, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer.

Industry-wide Concerns and Previous Incidents

This recall highlights ongoing concerns about talc-based products in the cosmetics industry. In 2019, Johnson & Johnson recalled 33,000 bottles of its baby powder after the FDA discovered asbestos in test samples. Subsequently, J&J discontinued sales of its talc-based powder in the U.S. in 2020.

The talcum powder industry has faced numerous lawsuits over asbestos contamination, with significant jury awards. J&J’s talcum-based powder has been linked to other health concerns, including ovarian cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies talc as a probable carcinogen. A proposed settlement by J&J, awaiting approval, would pay out around $8 billion to resolve lawsuits, with nearly 58,000 talcum powder lawsuits currently filed in multidistrict litigation.

Regulatory Response and Reporting

The FDA is actively monitoring the situation and encourages health care professionals and consumers to report any adverse events related to this product to the FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program. This proactive approach helps ensure the safety of cosmetic products and protects public health.

Consumers can find a complete list of the states where the recalled powder was delivered on the FDA’s website. As the investigation continues, it is crucial for consumers to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families from potential asbestos exposure.