Asbestos contamination in talcum powder
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Johnson & Johnson hit with another giant asbestos-talcum powder verdict: $65.5 million in Minnesota
Fortuneยท 2025-12-21 11:03
Core Viewpoint - A Minnesota jury awarded $65.5 million to a plaintiff who claimed that Johnson & Johnson's talcum products, which may have been contaminated with asbestos, contributed to her developing mesothelioma, a type of cancer affecting the lungs [1][2]. Legal Proceedings - Johnson & Johnson plans to appeal the jury's verdict, asserting that their baby powder is safe and does not contain asbestos [2][3]. - The trial lasted 13 days, during which the plaintiff's legal team argued that the company marketed talc-based products despite knowing the potential for asbestos contamination [2][4]. Company Response - Johnson & Johnson's vice president of litigation stated that the company's baby powder is safe and does not cause cancer, expressing confidence that the appellate court will reverse the decision [3][5]. - The company has faced ongoing legal challenges regarding the safety of its talc products, with previous cases resulting in significant awards against the company [4][6]. Industry Context - Johnson & Johnson ceased the sale of talc-based powder products globally in 2023, following mounting legal pressures and health concerns [4]. - Recent jury awards in similar cases highlight a trend of significant financial liabilities for the company related to claims of cancer caused by its talcum products [6].