
On January 30, 2019 Reuters
reported that the National Health Ministry of Sri Lanka has banned imports of Johnson’s
Baby Powder until independent testing of talc supplies proves the talc
is asbestos free. This move comes in the wake of a December 2018
Reuters Investigative Report finding Johnson & Johnson knew for decades its Baby Powder contained asbestos.
J&J and its subsidiaries have operations in over 60 countries. J&J
India supplies Baby Powder to Sri Lanka and much of Asia, where the product
is very popular. Sri Lanka is banning new imports until J&J India
provides new asbestos test results.
Indian drug authorities have also expressed concern about the safety of
J&J Baby Powder following the revelations in the Reuters report. Last
month, it was
announced that regulators in India launched its own investigation, including the
testing and seizure talc samples from J&J India facilities.
J&J has had a presence in India for over 70 years. J&J Baby Powder
is one of the most recognized foreign brands in in the country. Gifting
of the iconic baby powder to an expectant mother is practically a family
ritual in India, much like America.
Check back for updates as this story continues to develop.