The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a nationwide recall for Dynacare baby powder due to the worry that it may be contaminated by asbestos.
The recall applies to 62 cases of the baby powder made by the Dynarex Corporation. The batch number on affected packages is B051, and these were sent to distribution hubs on March 11 or later. The affected packages were sent to 12 states, and the powder was also sold online by Amazon.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that has many useful properties, but it is toxic if not properly contained. The mineral is often found near mines that dig for talc, the powder commonly used in personal care products. If talc mines do not take special precautions, the mined talc may become contaminated by asbestos, according to Dynarex.
Dynarex said the FDA was conducting routine sample tests on its products when the asbestos contamination was discovered. As soon as that happened, Dynarex stopped distributing the baby powder and is working to uncover the source of the adulteration.
The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) says that being exposed to asbestos over the long-term can cause diseases like asbestosis, lung cancer, mesothelioma, and others. These are diseases of the lungs that are often crippling and fatal.
The substance can sometimes be found in many old homes as it was a component of building materials because of its durability and resistance to fire. It was also commonly used in automobile brake pads for the same reasons.
The recalled baby powder came in plastic bottles weighing 14 ounces and carrying an expiration date of December 28, 2026. This date can be found on the bottom of the bottle. Customers who have purchased any of the affected bottles are asked to stop using them immediately and return the powder to the store where it was bought for a refund.
Dynarex also recommends that consumers report any adverse health effects directly to the FDA, which can be done online at the agency’s site. Dynarex will also answer customer queries at 845-365-8200, or by email sent to [email protected]. So far no medical problems have been reported.
The FDA’s site has more information along with a constantly updated list of recalled food and personal care items.
