2 hrs ago
Texas investigates Lululemon over possible PFAS in sportswear
PFAS are chemicals sometimes used to make clothes resist water, stains and sweat.
They are called “forever chemicals” because some can stay in the environment and body for a long time.
Texas is checking whether Lululemon sportswear contains these chemicals.
Lululemon says it stopped using PFAS in fiscal 2023.
Some experts have linked long-term exposure to certain PFAS with immune, metabolic and hormonal effects.
Wearing clothing that contains PFAS does not automatically mean a dangerous amount enters the body.
Exposure may depend on the fabric, chemical, treatment and how often the clothing is worn.
Experts recommend clearer product information, independent testing and credible safety certifications.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton launched an investigation into possible PFAS in Lululemon athletic apparel.
The investigation will examine Lululemon’s Restricted Substances List, testing protocols and supply-chain practices.
Lululemon says it phased out PFAS in fiscal 2023 after limited use in some water-repellent products.
Experts say certain PFAS can persist in the environment and body, with possible immune, metabolic and hormonal effects.
Experts say skin contact does not automatically cause harmful absorption, but recommend transparency and credible PFAS-free certifications.
- Who
- Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and the Texas Office of the Attorney General are investigating Lululemon; medical experts provided health guidance.
- What
- An investigation is examining whether Lululemon athletic apparel contains PFAS and complies with stated safety standards.
- Where
- Texas; the products are Lululemon athletic apparel.
- When
- The investigation was launched after recent reports; Lululemon said it phased out PFAS in fiscal 2023.
- Why
- The investigation aims to assess possible PFAS use, testing, restricted-substance controls and supply-chain practices.
Investigation and precaution
Company response and risk context
Whether products may contain PFAS
Investigation and precaution
The Texas investigation will determine whether Lululemon apparel contains PFAS and whether the company’s safety controls and supply chain meet its stated standards.
Company response and risk context
Lululemon says it does not currently use PFAS and phased them out in fiscal 2023.
Potential health risk
Investigation and precaution
Experts say prolonged exposure to certain PFAS has been associated with effects on the immune system, metabolism and hormonal functions, making transparency important for frequently worn activewear.
Company response and risk context
Experts also stress that PFAS presence does not automatically represent an immediate health risk, because absorption depends on the chemical, fabric, treatment, amount and duration of exposure.
Consumer response
Investigation and precaution
Consumers may reasonably prefer products with clear material disclosures and credible PFAS-free or chemical-safety certifications.
Company response and risk context
Experts caution that PFAS exposure can come from many environmental and consumer sources, so focusing only on sportswear may provide an incomplete picture and create unnecessary fear.
Key facts
- Chemicals
- PFAS means per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, synthetic chemicals used to make fabrics water-, stain- and sweat-resistant.
- Investigator
- Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton
- Company response
- Lululemon denies currently using PFAS and says it phased them out in fiscal 2023.
- Earlier use
- The company said PFAS had been used on a limited basis in a small percentage of water-repellent products.
- Health evidence
- Certain PFAS have been associated with immune-system, metabolic and hormonal effects.
- Skin exposure
- Experts said skin contact does not automatically mean a harmful quantity will be absorbed.
- Consumer guidance
- Experts recommend disclosure of materials and treatments, independent testing and credible PFAS-free certifications where available.
Quotes
Dr Aarti Ullal
Physician and diabetologist at Gleneagles Hospital Parel
“From a health perspective, prolonged exposure to certain PFAS has been associated with effects on the immune system, metabolism and hormonal functions. However, the potential health impact depends on factors such as the specific PFAS involved, the amount of exposure and the duration of exposure. Therefore, the presence of PFAS in a product should not automatically be interpreted as an immediate health risk.”
indianexpress.com
“For people who regularly wear activewear, particularly during intense workouts when there is prolonged contact between sweaty skin and fabric, it is reasonable to be mindful of product claims and choose clothing from manufacturers that provide clear information about the materials and chemical treatments used.”
indianexpress.com
Sources
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