Gov't bans imports of talcum powder containing asbestos

SEOUL, April 9 (Yonhap) -- The government decided on Thursday to ban imports of
talcum powder that contains asbestos, a cancer-causing substance, following a
recent scandal involving the carcinogen detected in baby powder products.
The Korea Food & Drug Administration banned the sale of baby powder products made
by eight manufacturers last week after their products were found to contain
asbestos, a mineral that can cause serious illnesses, including lung cancer, when
inhaled.
Talcum, another type of mineral, is widely used in the production of baby powder
and cosmetic products.
The prime minister's office said the Korea Customs Service will conduct mandatory
screening of imported talcum products effective immediately and place import bans
on all products that contain asbestos. The food watchdog will also screen all
medical and cosmetic products for any carcinogenic substances.
The Ministry of Knowledge Economy will also conduct asbestos screening for
rubber, paper and other industrial products that are produced using talcum
powder, the office said. The government says it plans to set up a special task
force under the prime minister's office that will supervise management of other
hazardous materials.
odissy@yna.co.kr
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