ECHA:
Talc is classified as probably carcinogenic

The Committee for Risk Assessment (RAC) is calling for talc to be classified as a category 1B carcinogen under the CLP Regulation and therefore as a substance of very high concern in future. This is surprising, as the Netherlands had proposed classifying the substance only as a category 2 carcinogen, i.e. less severe.

The expert group's judgment is based on study data from humans and animals from different exposure routes and types of cancer. Nevertheless, the indications of a carcinogenic effect are limited. However, according to a provision in Annex I of the CLP Regulation, it is possible to classify the substance as probably carcinogenic to humans even if the evidence is inconclusive.

Far-reaching consequences

This would have far-reaching consequences for the industry because the EU Cosmetics Regulation prohibits the use of category 1A, 1B and 2 carcinogens in cosmetics. In fact, talc is used in numerous products, such as consumer goods, personal care products and body powders. The substance is also used as a filler in pharmaceuticals and in the paint and printing ink industry.

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