Activewear giant Lululemon Athletica Inc. is facing scrutiny after an investigation was launched into the possible presence of so-called “forever chemicals” in its clothing.
In a statement issued on April 13, the office of Ken Paxton, the top legal authority in the US state of Texas responsible for enforcing consumer protection and safety laws, said it has sent a Civil Investigative Demand to the company to examine whether it has misled customers about the safety, quality and health impact of its products.
The probe will specifically look into whether Lululemon’s apparel contains Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of synthetic compounds often used to make fabrics water, or stain-resistant.
“The company (Lululemon) markets itself as a wellness-focused lifestyle brand emphasising sustainability and performance. However, emerging research and consumer concerns have raised questions about the potential presence of certain synthetic materials and chemical compounds in their apparel that may be associated with endocrine disruption, infertility, cancer and other health issues,” the statement read.
Lululemon has not yet publicly responded to the investigation.
The announcement briefly rattled investors, with the company’s shares falling by up to 4.5% in early trading before recovering some losses.
WHY PFAS ARE A CONCERN
PFAS, or “forever chemicals”, are widely used in consumer goods ranging from cookware to cosmetics and textiles.
Their durability, resisting heat, water and oil, is what makes them useful. But the same property also makes them difficult to break down, allowing them to accumulate in the environment and, potentially, in the human body over time.
Scientific studies have linked PFAS exposure to several health risks, including hormone disruption, weakened immune response, fertility issues and certain cancers.
Because of these concerns, regulators and researchers globally have been increasingly focusing on limiting their use.
However, experts caution that evidence directly linking PFAS in clothing to clear health outcomes remains limited. Most existing research has focused on exposure through contaminated water or industrial settings, with fewer studies examining risks from textiles.
WHAT THE INVESTIGATION WILL EXAMINE
According to the Texas Attorney General’s office, the enquiry will assess whether Lululemon’s products contain PFAS that “health-conscious customers would not expect,” given the brand’s positioning as a wellness-focused company.
It will also review the company’s internal safety standards, chemical policies, testing procedures and supply chains.
The investigation comes despite Lululemon previously indicating, in a 2024 disclosure, that PFAS were among the substances it aimed to restrict in its products.
WHAT IT MEANS FOR CONSUMERS
At this stage, the investigation does not establish that Lululemon’s products pose a direct health risk. Instead, it seeks to determine whether potentially harmful substances are present and whether consumers were adequately informed.
Still, the development adds to a growing awareness that chemicals used in everyday items, including clothing, may have long-term health implications.
For consumers, it highlights the importance of transparency and the need for clearer information about what goes into the products they use daily.
– Ends
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