Talc in the EU: from a favourite mineral to a carcinogenic risk

For decades, talc (Mg₃H₂(SiO₃)₄) was used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food and industry because of its softness, its ability to absorb moisture and its chemical stability. However, on 20 September 2024 the Committee for Risk Assessment (RAC) of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) proposed, and in July 2025 confirmed, that talc be classified as:

• Carcinogen category 1B (H350: may cause cancer)
• STOT RE 1 (H372: causes damage to the lungs through prolonged or repeated exposure by inhalation)

This decision represents a radical shift in the way talc will be regulated in the European Union and signals significant changes for industry and consumers.

Why is talc now classified as a carcinogen?

RAC reached its conclusion on the basis of a combination of human, animal and mechanistic evidence:

• Ovarian cancer (human evidence): Meta-analyses show an increased risk (20–30%) in women who used talc in the genital area. Talc particles have also been found in tumour tissue, which provides a biological basis for suspicion.
• Lung cancer (animal evidence): Female rats developed tumours after inhaling talc. Although not all models showed the same results, RAC judged these data to be relevant to humans.
• Mechanism: Long-term exposure to talc causes chronic inflammation and oxidative stress, which leads to cell damage and tumour development.

It is important to stress that this new classification does not depend only on the presence of asbestos. RAC looked at asbestos-free talc and concluded that talc itself, even without contamination, carries serious health risks.

Lung damage and industrial workers

Beyond carcinogenicity, RAC particularly emphasised that talc causes severe and permanent lung damage in people exposed to it for long periods. Epidemiological studies of miners and factory workers showed increased mortality from respiratory diseases, pneumoconiosis and serious impairment of lung function. These data further support the STOT RE 1 classification.

In other words, the problem is no longer just a theoretical risk for consumers, but also a real health burden for thousands of workers in industry.

Next steps: what follows in the EU

If the European Commission accepts RAC’s opinion, talc will be entered in Annex VI of the CLP Regulation. This means:

• New labels and packaging: Talc will carry the GHS08 symbol (health hazard) and the statements H350 and H372.
• Risk assessments and worker protection: Companies will have to reduce exposure in production and processing, including ventilation, protective equipment and substitution of materials.
• Restrictions in cosmetics: Talc is expected to end up in Annex II of the EU Cosmetics Regulation (prohibited substances) by 2027.
• The search for alternatives: Brands will have to replace talc in powders, eyeshadows, baby products and pharmaceutical formulations.

What does this mean for consumers?

For people who use talc every day, through make-up, baby powder or pharmaceutical products, the new classification means that by 2027 the market will almost certainly have switched to talc-free products.

Practical consequences:

• Safer products: a reduced risk of cancer and lung damage.
• More transparency: clear labelling and a ban on use in cosmetics.
• Possible price increases: because of the costs of reformulation and substitute raw materials.

The bigger picture: what it means for industry and public health

RAC’s decision is part of a broader trend of strengthening consumer and worker safety in the EU. Talc, once seen as a harmless mineral, is now recognised as a substance that can contribute to serious diseases. For industry this means huge challenges in supply and innovation, and for public health a reduced risk of cancer and respiratory diseases.

Conclusion

ECHA and RAC have made it clear: the time when talc was considered a harmless mineral in the EU is over. Its new classification as Carc. 1B and STOT RE 1 changes the rules of the game for cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and industry. Consumers can expect safer products, and companies must act now, because 2027 is closer than it seems.

If your company is looking for support in analysing products and planning compliance with EU regulations, Vetren can help you.