Dec 26 (Reuters) - The U.S. Food and Drug Administration

is proposing that cosmetic products containing talc should be

tested using standardized methods to detect asbestos, a

potential contaminant, according to documents posted on the

federal register on Thursday.

WHY IT'S IMPORTANT

Asbestos, a known human carcinogen, can be injurious to

consumers if found in talc-containing cosmetic products as there

is no established "safe level" threshold for exposure to the

substance.

If finalized, the rule can help protect consumers from

harmful exposure to asbestos, leading to fewer illnesses such as

lung and ovarian cancers, the health regulator said.

CONTEXT

Johnson & Johnson ( JNJ ) is facing lawsuits from more than

62,000 claimants, who have alleged that the company's baby

powder and other talc products were contaminated with asbestos

and caused ovarian and other cancers.

The healthcare giant seeks to resolve the claims through an

approximately $10 billion settlement in bankruptcy. It has

denied the allegations and called its products safe.

In its proposed rule, the FDA would require manufacturers to

test a sample of each batch of a talc-containing cosmetic

product for asbestos by using methods such as polarized light

and transmission electron microscopy, which produces images by

illuminating samples with an electron beam.

If the manufacturer fails to comply with testing and

record-keeping requirements, the proposed rule allows the FDA to

declare that product as adulterated under the Federal Food,

Drug, and Cosmetic Act.

WHAT'S NEXT

The FDA is seeking comments on the proposed rule from the

public and industry representatives for the next 90 days before

finalizing the requirements.