Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder Controversy May Be Near an End
The company proposed an $8.9 billion settlement of cancer claims and is ending its talc-based product. But the seeds of litigation, Bloomberg Investigates reveals, were planted decades ago.
Bloomberg Investigates: The Baby Powder Controversy
Johnson’s baby powder has long been the healthcare giant’s iconic product. But in recent years, it’s triggered an uproar around the company. Tens of thousands of lawsuits were filed against Johnson & Johnson alleging the talc-based version of the product was tainted with cancer-causing asbestos.
Plaintiffs contend internal documents suggest the company knew of its health risks for decades. The company denies that the product, which it says it’s discontinuing this year, contained asbestos or causes cancer, and points to its many legal victories and case dismissals.