Fresh Air
The Dark Secrets Of Johnson & Johnson
Apr 10, 2025
Gardner Harris, a freelance investigative journalist and author of 'No More Tears,' reveals alarming insights into Johnson & Johnson's baby powder saga. He discusses how the company's defense against lawsuits claiming its talc products cause cancer is faltering. Harris dives deep into the troubling history of asbestos contamination and the stark contrast between consumer trust and corporate responsibility. He highlights evolving evidence linking these products to serious health risks and the emotional impact on consumers.
44:32
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Quick takeaways
- Johnson & Johnson's long-term disregard for evidence linking its talc powder to cancer risks showcases a troubling history of consumer safety negligence.
- The emotional marketing strategies employed by Johnson & Johnson created a strong consumer trust that overshadowed the increasing health concerns associated with its products.
Deep dives
Uncovering the Dark History of Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder
The investigation into Johnson & Johnson's baby powder reveals a troubling history connecting its talc-based products to cancer risks. Research dating back to the 1920s indicated the dangers of talcum powder, but instead of heeding these warnings, the company saw a surge in the popularity of its baby powder as the evidence of harm increased. Talc, chemically similar to asbestos, has been found to contain the latter in trace amounts, creating significant health concerns. The podcast highlights how Johnson & Johnson was aware of this contamination since the 1940s but continued to market and sell the product, leading to severe health implications for users.
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