Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has issued an investigative demand to the U.S. arm of Canadian athletic apparel brand Lululemon, looking into whether its products contain so-called "forever chemicals," according to a report by Xinhua News.
"Forever chemicals" mainly refer to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). In a statement on April 13, Paxton said recent studies and consumer concerns have raised questions that Lululemon's products may contain certain synthetic materials and chemicals that could be linked to endocrine disruption, infertility, cancer, and other health issues. The investigation aims to determine whether Lululemon has misled consumers regarding product safety, quality, and health effects.
Under the order, the Texas Attorney General's Office will also review Lululemon USA Inc.'s restricted substances list, product testing protocols, and supply chain management to assess whether its products meet the safety standards it claims.
Paxton said he will not allow any company to sell products containing "harmful" or "toxic" substances at premium prices under the guise of "health" and "sustainability." If the investigation finds that Lululemon has violated Texas law, the company will be held accountable accordingly.
Lululemon responded that the company does not use PFAS in its products. It previously used the substances in a small number of water-repellent products but phased them out by fiscal 2023. The company requires its suppliers to conduct regular restricted substance testing, including for PFAS, through third-party laboratories to ensure ongoing compliance. Lululemon also said it is cooperating by providing the materials required for the investigation.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, PFAS are a group of more than 14,000 synthetic chemicals widely used in industrial production and consumer products, including textiles, firefighting foam, medical devices, coatings, personal care products and building materials. Exposure to certain PFAS may be linked to a range of health problems, including increased risk of cancer, elevated cholesterol levels and effects on the immune system.
Related News:
OMG | Antony Blinken: The president is putting himself into a corner
Trump claims Iran wants to 'make a deal very badly,' signaling US eagerness too
Comment