Band-Aid Accused of Hiding "Forever Chemicals" in Lawsuit

Ouch! You reach for a trusty Band-Aid to soothe a scrape, but a proposed class action lawsuit throws a wrench into that routine. Sharnay Moultrie recently filed a complaint against Johnson & Johnson and Kenvue (the current owner of Band-Aid) alleging these wound dressings might contain hidden nasties: "forever chemicals" called PFAS.

What's the big deal with PFAS?

PFAS, which stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a large group of man-made chemicals known for their extreme resistance to degradation. This means they don't break down easily in the environment and can accumulate in our bodies over time, even from low-level exposure.

Studies have linked PFAS exposure to a variety of concerning health problems, including:

• Liver damage: PFAS can interfere with how the liver functions, potentially leading to fatty liver disease and other issues.

• Decreased fertility: Research suggests PFAS exposure can reduce fertility in both men and women.

• Thyroid disorders: PFAS can disrupt the hormones produced by the thyroid gland, impacting metabolism and other bodily functions.

• Increased risk of certain cancers: Studies have found a possible link between PFAS exposure and cancers like testicular cancer, kidney cancer, and certain types of leukemia.

The Band-Aid lawsuit says that even small amounts of PFAS can build up over time. This means the potential health effects may not be immediately apparent, making it even more crucial to understand where we might be encountering these chemicals.

How'd they find PFAS in Band-Aids?

Enter Mamavation, a consumer watchdog group focused on keeping families safe from hidden hazards. They commissioned tests on various bandages, including Band-Aid products.  The results, conducted by an EPA-certified lab, were concerning – some Band-Aid varieties allegedly showed levels of PFAS that raised red flags.

While the class action lawsuit specifically mentions Band-Aid Flexible Fabric Comfortable Protection Bandages, Band-Aid OURTONE Flexible Fabric BR45/BR55/BR65 Bandages, it also suggests other Band-Aid products might be hiding PFAS.

What's the lawsuit saying?

Moultrie wants to represent all U.S. consumers who bought the listed Band-Aid products. Here's what she is accusing Johnson & Johnson and Kenvue of:

• Keeping Consumers in the Dark: The lawsuit claims the companies never mentioned these potentially harmful chemicals lurking in their Band-Aids.

• Not Fit for Duty: Moultrie argues the presence of PFAS makes these Band-Aids unsuitable for their intended purpose – protecting wounds.

• Breaking Promises and Laws: The lawsuit alleges violations of California consumer protection laws and breaches of warranties (both the kind you say out loud and the kind the law implies).

Moultrie is seeking compensation for affected consumers, a court order to stop selling these Band-Aids without proper disclosure, and a chance to plead their case in front of a jury.

What can you do?

The lawsuit is just getting started, so there's no need to panic. But staying informed is key. You can sign up for updates from Injury Claims or consumer groups involved.

This case highlights a concerning trend: potential health risks hiding in everyday household products. It's important to be aware of what's in the things we use and hold companies accountable for being transparent about their products.

The plaintiff and proposed class are represented by Philip L. Fraietta, Joshua D. Arisohn and Caroline C. Donovan of Bursor & Fisher, P.A.

The Band-Aids PFAS proposed class action lawsuit is Moultrie v. Johnson & Johnson, et al., Case No. 2:24-cv-04757, in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey.