Johnson and Johnson Cleans Up Its Products, and Reputation
A few years ago, when I was a new mom, there was a huge controversy about BPA (bisphenol A) being a component of toys and baby bottles. This previously obscure chemical suddenly skyrocketed to prominence as it was shown that this chemical was leaching into baby bottles. BPA mimics the hormone estrogen in the human body, and has been linked to a higher risk of breast cancer and heart disease. While the precise nature of the risk in humans is still unclear, it was enough to stimulate debate as to what the risks are of various chemicals being added to children’s products.
Fast forward a few years, and it seems that larger companies are finally heeding the cries of concerned parents, and taking tangible steps to remove dangerous chemical additives to beauty and cosmetic products.
Johnson and Johnson announced Friday that it would remove carcinogens and toxic chemicals from all its adult and baby products globally. The move was applauded by The Campaign For Safe Cosmetics, a coalition of more than 175 agencies whose objective it is to remove hazardous chemicals from cosmetic products. Lisa Archer, director of the coalition called the announcement “a major victory for public health.” She added, “We applaud Johnson & Johnson for its leadership in committing to remove cancer-causing chemicals from its products. We will be vigilant in making sure it meets its commitments and will continue to encourage it to remove other ingredients of concern. And we call on other cosmetics giants—Avon, Estee Lauder, L’Oreal, Procter & Gamble and Unilever—to meet or beat J&J’s commitments and signal they take consumer safety as seriously as their competitor. As always, we encourage consumers to seek out the safest products for their families and support companies that are avoiding chemicals of concern."
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