Stuff You Should Know Selects: The Tylenol Murders, Part II
Mar 26, 2022
Explore the chilling Tylenol murders that sent shockwaves through Chicago and beyond. Learn how a public relations disaster transformed Johnson & Johnson amidst consumer panic. Delve into the complex investigation that remains unsolved, spotlighting key suspects and their troubling backgrounds. Discover how this tragedy led to significant changes in product safety regulations and tamper-resistant packaging. The intertwining of crime and consumer trust forms a haunting narrative that continues to resonate today.
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Initial Recall Resistance
- Johnson & Johnson initially resisted a full Tylenol recall after the poisonings.
- Chicago's Mayor Jane Byrne's press conference forced their hand.
The $100 Million Gamble
- Recalling and destroying $100 million worth of Tylenol was a huge risk for Johnson & Johnson.
- It could've meant losing not only money but also the public's trust.
Pre-Tampering Era
- Before the poisonings, over-the-counter medications lacked tamper-proof seals.
- Consumers could open, smell, and even potentially contaminate products.