Why did pharma giant Johnson & Johnson recall its 5 sunscreens?

Pharmaceutical and cosmetic giant Johnson & Johnson announced a recall of five of their sunscreen products on Wednesday after certain samples were discovered to have low quantities of benzene, a chemical that can cause cancer if exposed to it repeatedly.

The items that have been impacted include Aveeno Protect + Refresh aerosol sunscreen and four Neutrogena sunscreen versions: Beach Defense aerosol sunscreen, CoolDry Sport aerosol sunscreen, Invisible Daily Defense aerosol sunscreen, and UltraSheer aerosol sunscreen.

Here is why the recall is happening?

In a statement, Johnson & Johnson admitted the presence of a harmful chemical, Benzene, in the aforementioned products after an examination. The test was conducted by an online pharmacy and lab Valisure, CBC reported.

According to the results, Benzene, which is a known carcinogen, was found in 78 of nearly 300 sprays and lotions that were examined said Valisure.

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The presence of this harmful chemical was the prime reason behind the recall. J&J has reported the recall to Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Benzene is one of the most studied and concerning human carcinogens known to science. Various studies have suggested and proved its association with blood cancer in humans. The usage of benzene-related products repeatedly or at regular intervals in adults as well as in children is very concerning.

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, exposure to Benzene can also harm the immune system and hinder cells from working correctly.

J&J said in a statement that “use of these products would not be expected to cause adverse health consequences” and that it voluntarily decided to recall them “out of an abundance of caution.” People should apply an alternative sunscreen to prevent themselves from skin cancer melanoma, according to the warning.  

The company has also assured that a probe will be conducted on the matter.

According to CBS J&J said that it is working on the removal of the affected products from all the stores. Meanwhile, the regular consumers who want to claim a refund on any of the impacted products can do by calling J&J’s Consumer Care Center at 1-800-458-1673.