Johnson & Johnson recalls popular sunscreens due to carcinogen contamination, sparking health concerns and consumer outrage.
At a Glance
- Johnson & Johnson recalls five Neutrogena and Aveeno aerosol sunscreens due to benzene contamination
- Benzene, a known carcinogen, was detected in some samples despite not being an ingredient
- Consumers advised to stop using affected products and seek refunds
- Long-term exposure to benzene can lead to serious health issues, including leukemia
- Recall prompted by independent lab findings, raising questions about quality control in consumer products
Johnson & Johnson’s Voluntary Recall
In a move that has raised concerns about product safety, Johnson & Johnson has issued a voluntary recall for five of its aerosol sunscreen products. The recall affects four Neutrogena sprays – Beach Defense, Cool Dry Sport, Invisible Daily, and Ultra Sheer – as well as the Aveeno Protect + Refresh spray. This action comes after the detection of benzene, a known carcinogen, in some samples of these products.
The company has advised consumers to stop using the affected products immediately and to dispose of them. Those seeking refunds or with questions can contact Johnson & Johnson at 1-800-458-1673. This recall affects all lots of the specified aerosol sunscreens, which were distributed nationwide through various retailers.
Johnson & Johnson is recalling specific NEUTROGENA and AVEENO aerosol sunscreen products due to the presence of benzene. The FDA recommends that consumers do not continue to use products that are being recalled. See here for more: https://t.co/UQvn72g0vQ pic.twitter.com/B2b1dvCuJU
— U.S. FDA (@US_FDA) July 15, 2021
The Benzene Contamination
Benzene, a highly flammable chemical commonly found in gasoline, plastics, and detergents, is not an ingredient in any of Johnson & Johnson’s sunscreen products. Its presence in the recalled items has prompted an investigation by the company to determine the source of contamination. Benzene exposure can occur through skin absorption, inhalation, or ingestion, raising significant health concerns.
“Out of an abundance of caution, we are recalling all lots of these specific aerosol sunscreen products,” the company said in a statement. “While benzene is not an ingredient in any of our sunscreen products, it was detected in some samples of the impacted aerosol sunscreen finished products.”
The recall was initiated following a report from Valisure, an independent research lab, which detected benzene in 78 sun-care products, including several from Neutrogena. Valisure’s findings showed that 27% of samples contained detectable benzene, with some batches having up to three times the FDA’s limit of 2 parts per million.
Health Risks and Consumer Concerns
Benzene is classified as a carcinogen that can cause serious health issues with long-term exposure. These include cancers such as leukemia, as well as blood disorders like anemia and loss of white blood cells. The potential health risks associated with this contamination have understandably sparked outrage and concern among consumers.
Despite Johnson & Johnson’s assurances that the detected benzene levels are not expected to cause adverse health consequences based on exposure modeling and EPA guidance, the recall highlights ongoing issues with contaminants in consumer goods. This incident echoes past challenges faced by the company, such as concerns over its baby powder products, further eroding consumer trust.
Industry-Wide Implications
The sunscreen recall raises questions about quality control and safety measures in the consumer products industry. While regulatory safeguards are in place, the incident demonstrates that accidental exposure to harmful chemicals remains a pressing problem. Consumers are demanding higher accountability from major corporations and more rigorous quality control measures to better safeguard public health.
As the investigation into the source of benzene contamination continues, potential culprits include ethanol used in aerosols and carbomer, a thickening agent. This recall serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency in manufacturing processes and the need for constant vigilance in product safety.
The FDA has been notified of the recall, and consumers are encouraged to remain informed about product safety issues. While the use of sunscreen remains crucial for protection against harmful UV rays, this incident underscores the importance of choosing products carefully and staying aware of potential risks in everyday consumer goods.
