Drop ‘baby’ from product labels, FDA tells MNC

The FDA directive charges the healthcare major with ‘‘misleading labelling’’ of some popular products. Except for baby powder and baby soap, the FDA alleges that nearly six products, including the extensively marketed baby oil and baby lotion, are ‘‘unsuitable’’ for babies. ‘‘They are regular cosmetics like, for example, Lakme lotion or Lux soap. Would you use these on a baby? Let them sell these as products for adults,’’ said Ramakrishnan.

The FDA labs tested the products following a complaint by a city consumer who said his newborn developed rashes or skin reactions that needed medical attention after use of baby oil.

The notice — copied to the Drug Controller General of India and the Union Health Ministry — is based on findings that light liquid paraffin is the basis of baby oil. ‘‘They don’t have DCGA permission to use such formulae. This oil can cause skin reactions on babies, it could be carcinogenic,’’ said Ramakrishnan. ‘‘Let them sell it as a massage oil for adults, not for babies.’’ The FDA said the use of liquid paraffin in baby oil violates Section 17C (c) of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act (1940), amounting to misbranding and misleading labelling.

Ramakrishnan has urged FDAs in other states to issue similar notices. A Johnson & Johnson official told PTI that the company has received the FDA notice and is studying the details.