Testing Consumer Goods for Asbestos and Other Regulated Materials

This past September, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) posted information about a manufacturer that has voluntarily recalled various cosmetic products that tested positive for asbestos during the agency’s ongoing testing of cosmetics. This recall followed several previous ones this year from the manufacturer and a national retail chain that was also associated with asbestos concerns in cosmetics.

According to the FDA, asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that is often found near talc, an ingredient in many cosmetic products. If talc mining sites are not selected carefully and steps are not taken to purify the talc ore sufficiently during the mining process, the talc may be contaminated with asbestos.

“When a powdered makeup contains asbestos it could be a serious health hazard as inhalation exposure to asbestos fibers can cause lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “Any makeup applied to the face in a powder form could be easily inhaled. The FDA is advising consumers not to use any cosmetic products listed in the lots or batch numbers that are part of the published recalls.”

To help companies identify raw ingredients and products that may contain asbestos or other contaminants, EMSL Analytical, Inc. offers comprehensive material testing services. Their scientists are routinely called upon to ensure raw materials and finished goods do not contain asbestos and a wide range of other substances. These services help to prevent exposure hazards, costly product recalls, potential litigation expenses, and the challenging public relations often encountered by companies involved with producing, importing or retailing products that are later recalled.

To learn more about consumer product testing or other material, environmental, health and safety testing services, please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675 or email  info@EMSL.com .


About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories with over 46 locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP 797, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOC’s, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA LAP, LLC. (AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

(1) 856-303-2503

Contact via E-mail