FDA To Conduct Talc-Asbestos Test Methods Meeting

FDA To Conduct Talc-Asbestos Test Methods Meeting

Introduction

FDA will hold a meeting next month to discuss testing methods for the baby powder, following a nationwide recall after federal regulators found segments of asbestos particles in Johnson & Johnson's (J&J) talcum powder .

The public meeting is scheduled for February 4, where the FDA will hear testimony about the best possible methods to test asbestos in talc, and talc-containing cosmetic products, from the experts. The meeting will also include discussion and presentation of scientific data, information on the testing methodologies, and terminology and criteria. According to the agency, even after using the most sensitive electron microscopy methods, laboratories may get different results, which leads to a lack of uniformity for testing.

The recall that happened last year was the result of a survey conducted by the FDA for 50 talc-containing cosmetic products. The recall impacted around 33,000 bottles sold in stores nationwide.