A talc supplier for Johnson & Johnson (J&J) has recently filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy following several billion dollar verdicts awarded to plaintiffs over claims that certain Johnson & Johnson products contain asbestos and contributed to ovarian cancer and other diseases.
Who is the talc supplier?
Imerys Talc America is the supplier, which is the U.S. based division of French company Imerys SA. According to a Reuters article, the company decided to file for bankruptcy over feeling that it “lacks the financial clout to defend against nearly 15,000 lawsuits over its talc mineral product.” Even though the company has stated they do not believe the claims of asbestos in their talc are true, they cannot afford continuing costs of settlement and other payments. The company also mentioned heightened media interest as another factor in their decision.
Has Johnson & Johnson issued a response?
So far, J&J has not commented on the filing. In light of the lawsuits filed against them, Johnson & Johnson have continued to push the safety of their products. The company has even gone as so far as to launch an online media campaign attempting to downplay the backlash from the rulings of past lawsuits as well as the release of a shocking investigative journalist report by Reuters (you can read more about the campaign and the report here).
I have been injured by a Johnson & Johnson talc-based product. What resources are available to me?
If you or a loved one have been injured through the use of a Johnson & Johnson talc-based product contact our office at (303) 327-9988 to schedule a free consultation and speak with one of our experienced attorneys. Please also visit our practice area page on Talcum Powder and Ovarian Cancer here for additional information.
