Procter & Gamble Issues Second Recall Due to Cancer Causing Chemical

Benzene, a known cancer causing chemical, has now been found in various Pantene, Aussie, and Herbal Essences products. The Procter & Gamble Company (“P&G”) has issued recalls on a long list of aerosol products which include dry shampoos and dry conditioners. The full list can be found here.  Just last month, P&G issued a recall in regard to Old Spice and Secret antiperspirant sprays for the same reason.

In a statement issued by P&G, it stated that the recalled products are not likely to have levels of benzene high enough to affect consumer health and that the company had not yet received any reports of adverse reactions. The most common form of benzene exposure occurs by inhalation, however, exposure to benzene can also occur through skin or eye contact and ingestion. High levels of exposure to benzene can cause cancer, aplastic anemia, and other harmful effects on bone marrow. P&G has instructed those who have the recalled products in their possession to throw them away and is currently issuing full refunds for the recalled products.

P&G currently has a pending class action lawsuit in United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida that was filed by customers alleging deceptive trade practices, unjust enrichment, and breaches of express and implied warranties for P&G failing to disclose that Old Spice and Secret antiperspirants could contain benzene.