Lawsuit Filed Over Harmful Chemicals Found in Popular Condom Brand

A lawsuit has surfaced accusing Trojan condoms of containing dangerous PFAS, also known as ‘forever chemicals’.

At a Glance

A new lawsuit claims Trojan condoms contain toxic “forever chemicals” linked to cancer.
The plaintiff, Matthew Goodman, filed a proposed class action in Manhattan federal court.
The lawsuit targets Church & Dwight, the manufacturer of Trojan condoms.
Independent lab testing found organic fluorine in Trojan Ultra Thin condoms, indicating the presence of PFAS.
The lawsuit seeks at least $5 million in damages for purchasers of Trojan condoms nationwide.

The Lawsuit and Its Claims

A new legal battle has commenced against Church & Dwight, the manufacturer of Trojan condoms, over allegations that the condoms contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These substances are widely recognized as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment and human body. The lawsuit, filed by Matthew Goodman in Manhattan federal court, places a spotlight on the potential health risks and lack of disclosure on these products.

The plaintiff asserts that independent lab testing revealed the presence of organic fluorine in Trojan Ultra Thin condoms. Organic fluorine is a marker for PFAS, which are linked to serious health issues such as cancer, liver problems, and reproductive disorders. PFAS are commonly used in consumer products to repel water and resist heat and stains.

Trojan condoms contain 'forever chemicals,' lawsuit claims https://t.co/Q18B5OKlmz pic.twitter.com/hGjljqLYwI

— Reuters (@Reuters) September 10, 2024

Public Health Implications

The presence of PFAS in condoms is particularly concerning given the sensitive nature of the body areas they come into contact with. Studies have shown that these chemicals can be absorbed at higher levels through thin and vascular areas, such as the penis and vagina. This raises the stakes for potential health issues, including low birth weights, lower sperm counts, and other reproductive problems.

Many experts, including Linda Birnbaum, a former director of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, have raised alarms. Birnbaum has expressed that the industry’s exposure to such sensitive body areas makes the presence of these chemicals particularly hazardous.

A new lawsuit today claims that @TrojanCondoms are not safe because they contain toxic “forever chemicals,” which have been linked to #cancer.

More: https://t.co/umdJVDT69g #PFAS

— Star-Advertiser (@StarAdvertiser) September 10, 2024

The Path Forward

For Matthew Goodman and consumers who share his concerns, the litigation underscores the need for greater transparency and stringent regulatory protocols in the industry. The proposed class action seeks a minimum of $5 million in damages for all affected customers nationwide, emphasizing the financial and public health undertaken by consumers.

Efforts by consumer advocacy groups like Mamavation are already calling for immediate removal of PFAS from condom products. Recent studies, including those conducted by Mamavation, have found similar contaminants in various popular condoms and lubricants, further supporting the urgent call for industry reform.

“Because condoms are an exposure to the most sensitive areas on the human body for both men and women, I would strongly recommend the industry identify and remove these chemicals immediately,” Birnbaum wrote.

As this legal battle unfolds, the spotlight remains on ensuring product safety and more rigorous standards in manufacturing processes. Until then, consumers are advised to remain vigilant and informed about the products they purchase and use.