# Introduction to California Prop 65

- Show: [The Startup CPG Podcast](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-startup-cpg-podcast)
- Published: 2022-04-05
- Length: 58m
- Episode: 16
- Page: https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-startup-cpg-podcast/2022-04-05-introduction-to-california-prop-65
- Listen: https://share.transistor.fm/s/41d12ae6

## Summary

Rohit Sabnis, a partner at the law firm Keller and Heckman, explains California’s Proposition 65 (Prop 65) regulations, which require warnings for products exposing consumers to chemicals known to cause cancer or reproductive harm. He details how common chemicals like acrylamide, lead, and cadmium can enter products through sourcing or processing, even if not intentionally added, and emphasizes the importance of testing and supplier verification. Sabnis advises startups to proactively assess risk by reviewing past consent judgments and engaging in early compliance efforts to avoid costly litigation from private enforcers, often referred to as 'bounty hunters.'

## Chapters

- [0:03](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-startup-cpg-podcast/2022-04-05-introduction-to-california-prop-65#t=3) Introduction: Rohit Sabnis and Prop 65 Overview
- [5:52](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-startup-cpg-podcast/2022-04-05-introduction-to-california-prop-65#t=352) Prop 65 History and Warning Requirements
- [11:26](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-startup-cpg-podcast/2022-04-05-introduction-to-california-prop-65#t=686) Scope: Food, Beverage, and Packaging Compliance
- [13:55](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-startup-cpg-podcast/2022-04-05-introduction-to-california-prop-65#t=835) Common Chemicals: Acrylamide, Lead, and Cadmium
- [22:28](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-startup-cpg-podcast/2022-04-05-introduction-to-california-prop-65#t=1348) Safe Harbors, Thresholds, and Consent Judgments
- [29:59](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-startup-cpg-podcast/2022-04-05-introduction-to-california-prop-65#t=1799) Proactive Steps: Supplier Info and Testing Strategies
- [39:54](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-startup-cpg-podcast/2022-04-05-introduction-to-california-prop-65#t=2394) E-commerce, Amazon, and Jurisdictional Risks
- [45:30](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-startup-cpg-podcast/2022-04-05-introduction-to-california-prop-65#t=2730) The Enforcement Process: Notices of Violation
- [52:03](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-startup-cpg-podcast/2022-04-05-introduction-to-california-prop-65#t=3123) Proactive Compliance and Contact Information

## Topics

- [Certification & compliance](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/certification-and-compliance)
- [Sourcing & supply chain](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/sourcing-and-supply-chain)
- [Direct-to-consumer & e-commerce](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/direct-to-consumer)
- [Pricing, margins & unit economics](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/topic/pricing-and-unit-economics)

## Most relevant to

early-stage companies

## Mentioned

- Keller and Heckman (company)
- OEHHA (other)
- Amazon (company)
- Sprouts (company)

## Related episodes from other shows

- [DeepDive 1-on-1 Series: FUEL & PROTECTION - Securing the Supply Chain Before the Climb (31m22s)](https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/npi-sherpa/2026-03-03-deepdive-1-on-1-series-fuel-protection-securing-the-supply-chain-before-the-clim) (NPI Sherpa)

## Citing this page

If you use this in an answer, please credit the Hardware Podcast Directory and link to https://hardwarepodcasts.com/podcast/the-startup-cpg-podcast/2022-04-05-introduction-to-california-prop-65. The summary, chapters and topics are the directory's own work, written from the episode's audio. The episode itself, its title and its audio belong to The Startup CPG Podcast.