How Does Talc Become Contaminated With Asbestos?

Talc is a naturally occurring mineral known for its softness and versatility. This mineral is used in a wide range of consumer products. However, over the years, it has been discovered that talc can, at times, contain asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, which, when inhaled or ingested, can cause serious illnesses, such as lung cancer and mesothelioma. If talc contains asbestos, it can contaminate products, and the end user can end up using asbestos-contaminated products without knowing and developing asbestos-related illnesses. In this article, we discuss how talc can become contaminated with asbestos.

What is Talc?

Talc is a naturally occurring mineral. This mineral has several notable properties that make it useful in a wide range of products. Talc is the softest mineral, and this property makes it useful in products that require a smooth and silky texture. This mineral can absorb moisture, making it suitable for products like baby and body powders and some cosmetic products. Talc is used in many cosmetics, including face powder, eye shadow, lipsticks, foundation, blush, and even children’s makeup. Additionally, talc is heat resistant and has lubricating properties.

Other products that contain talc include;

• Some supplements
• Chewing gum
• Pharmaceutical pills
• Polished rice
• Crayons
• Children’s toys, like crime-scene fingerprint kits

Talc, in its pure form, is generally considered safe. However, the problem arises when talc contains traces of asbestos.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a group of mineral fibers known for their insulating properties, fire resistance, durability, and heat resistance. Because of its unique properties, asbestos has been popular in numerous industries and products for many years. For example, asbestos was widely used in building materials such as floor tiles, insulation, and roofing. Despite how useful asbestos is, exposure to asbestos can result in serious illnesses. When asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, it can lead to diseases like mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.

How Does Talc Become Contaminated With Asbestos?

Talc and asbestos are both naturally occurring minerals found underground. Often, these minerals are neighbors in the soil. Talc and asbestos are usually close to one another, such that if mining is not done correctly, the two minerals can mix. Even when safe mining practices are employed, cross-contamination can still occur.

Johnson & Johnson Lawsuits Over Asbestos-Contaminated Products

A brand that is most connected to asbestos in its talc products is Johnson & Johnson. The company has faced several lawsuits over claims that its talc-based products, particularly its baby powder, contained asbestos. The people who have filed lawsuits against J&J claim that their regular use of the company’s products has resulted in the development of asbestos-related health issues. These allegations led to the company recalling its famous baby powder. The sale of the product stopped in 2020 in the U.S. and Canada. Johnson & Johnson has consistently denied the allegations, but despite J&J’s defense, the company has had to pay several claimants significant amounts of money.

Nationwide Mesothelioma Lawyers

If you or a loved one were diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact our office to speak to one of our experienced nationwide 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.