Daijiworld Media Network - Texas
Texas, Apr 15: Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched an investigation into Canadian sportswear giant Lululemon over allegations that some of its products may contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals.”
According to a statement from his office, Paxton has issued a Civil Investigative Demand to the company’s US subsidiary as part of a broader inquiry into whether Lululemon misled consumers about the safety, quality, and health impacts of its products.
The investigation will examine whether the company’s athletic apparel contains PFAS substances that health-conscious consumers would not expect, given its branding around wellness and sustainability.
Officials will also review Lululemon’s Restricted Substances List, testing procedures, and supply chain practices to determine whether its manufacturing standards align with its publicly stated safety commitments.
In response, Lululemon said it does not currently use PFAS in its products and confirmed that it phased out their use in fiscal year 2023. The company noted that these chemicals had previously been used in a limited number of water-repellent items.
The brand added that its products meet or exceed global safety and regulatory requirements and that it enforces strict third-party testing protocols for restricted substances, including PFAS, across its supply chain. It also confirmed that it is cooperating with authorities and providing requested documentation.
PFAS are a large group of more than 14,000 synthetic chemicals widely used in industrial and consumer applications, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Health experts have raised concerns about potential risks linked to long-term exposure to certain PFAS compounds, including elevated cholesterol levels, immune system effects, and possible links to cancer.
The case adds to growing regulatory scrutiny of “forever chemicals” in consumer goods, as governments and health agencies worldwide tighten oversight of chemical safety in manufacturing and retail products.