Reports recently surfaced that the U.S. Department of Justice is investigating whether pharmaceutical and cosmetics giant Johnson & Johnson knew about the risks its talc-based products posed to consumers but chose not to warn the public. The criminal probe comes as Johnson & Johnson faces thousands of lawsuits in civil courts across the country brought by plaintiffs who claim they developed various forms of cancer, including mesothelioma, from using the company’s talcum powder products.
What the Federal Investigation Involves
A federal grand jury in Washington state examined internal company documents related to what Johnson & Johnson knew about the presence of asbestos fibers or other carcinogens in its talcum powder products like Baby Powder and Shower to Shower. While talcum powder products make up only a small part of the company’s sales, they nonetheless have been a core brand for Johnson & Johnson for over a century.
Johnson & Johnson had disclosed to shareholders that the company received subpoenas from the Justice Department, though those disclosures did not initially mention that a grand jury had been convened or whether the matter was of a criminal or civil nature. In response to the developments, Johnson & Johnson has maintained that Johnson’s Baby Powder does not contain asbestos and has said it is fully cooperating with the investigation.
What the Civil Litigation Has Shown
Though Johnson & Johnson maintains that decades of independent testing show its talc, sourced by Imerys Talc USA, does not contain asbestos fibers, plaintiffs’ attorneys in civil lawsuits have presented juries with internal company documents dating back decades that they argue show company scientists had detected asbestos fibers in talc used in Baby Powder and Shower to Shower. Johnson & Johnson disputes these characterizations and continues to defend its products in litigation.
As civil lawsuits continue to progress, government bodies including the Department of Justice, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Securities and Exchange Commission have examined Johnson & Johnson’s talc-related disclosures. Some reporting has indicated the company has set aside billions of dollars in reserves for possible talcum powder lawsuit settlements.
Over the past several years, juries across the country have handed down substantial verdicts to plaintiffs who claim they developed mesothelioma and other cancers as a result of asbestos exposure from talcum powder products, including awards for punitive damages in some cases. Johnson & Johnson has appealed many of these verdicts, and the litigation remains ongoing across multiple jurisdictions.
What This Means If You’ve Been Diagnosed
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma after using talcum powder products, understanding these legal developments can help you evaluate your own situation. Our page on five crucial steps to take after a mesothelioma diagnosis covers the immediate priorities, from seeking a second opinion to exploring your legal options.
Nationwide Mesothelioma Lawyer
If you or a loved one were diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact our office to speak to one of our experienced mesothelioma attorneys about your situation. Our office can help investigate your case and determine if compensation can be sought from negligent parties to help pay for your medical treatment and help you and your family live a more comfortable life.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Johnson & Johnson Talc Investigation
Is Johnson & Johnson still selling talc-based Baby Powder?
Johnson & Johnson has discontinued sales of talc-based Baby Powder in the United States and Canada, shifting to a cornstarch-based formula, though litigation over past use of the talc-based product continues.
Does a federal investigation mean Johnson & Johnson has been found liable?
No. An investigation means federal authorities are examining evidence; it does not by itself establish liability. Johnson & Johnson disputes the allegations and continues to defend itself in both the criminal inquiry and civil litigation.
Can I still file a lawsuit if I used talcum powder products years ago?
Mesothelioma often takes decades to develop after asbestos exposure, and many jurisdictions have discovery rules that start the statute of limitations from the date of diagnosis rather than exposure. An attorney can evaluate the specific deadlines that apply to your situation.
What evidence do plaintiffs typically rely on in talcum powder lawsuits?
Plaintiffs’ attorneys have introduced internal company documents, testing records, and expert testimony to support claims about what the company knew and when, though these claims remain contested in ongoing litigation.
How do I know if my mesothelioma diagnosis is connected to talcum powder use?
An attorney experienced in asbestos litigation can help review your exposure history and medical records to determine whether talcum powder products may be a relevant source of exposure in your case.
