Archive · 2 Jun 2025
Toxic Chemicals Found in Indian Textiles Raise Health Concerns
Some clothes in India might have harmful chemicals called NPEs and NPs.
These chemicals can mess with your hormones and might cause cancer.
They're used in making clothes but aren't always removed.
A study found them in many clothing items, especially baby clothes and underwear, and in rivers near textile factories.
Many countries have rules against these chemicals, but India does not, which is why clothes made in India may contain these dangerous chemicals.
Nonylphenol (NP) and Nonylphenol Ethoxylates (NPEs) are endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
NPEs were found in 15 out of 40 textile products purchased across India.
The highest concentrations were found in innerwear, with a maximum of 957 mg/kg.
NP was detected in surface water of rivers near textile hubs.
India has limited regulations compared to the European Union regarding these chemicals.
- Who
- Consumers, textile manufacturers, and regulatory bodies.
- What
- The presence of NPEs and NPs in textile products and waterways in India.
- When
- The report was released by Toxics Link in 2025.
- Where
- India, specifically in textile products and rivers.
- Why
- Due to the potential health risks of NPEs and NPs, including hormonal disruption and links to cancer.
India
International Market
Industry Standards
India
India lacks regulations to ensure the adoption of safer chemicals in the textile industry.
International Market
Textile exporters can manufacture textiles without NPEs when requested by international clients.
- Chemicals of Concern
- Nonylphenol (NP) and Nonylphenol Ethoxylates (NPEs)
- Health Risks
- Endocrine disruptors, potential carcinogens
- Products with Highest Concentrations
- Innerwear and babywear
- Highest Concentration Found
- Up to 957 mg/kg
- Rivers Affected
- Cooum, Adyar, Buddha Nullah, Bandi, Sabarmati
- Uses in Textile Industry
- Wetting agents, detergents, emulsifiers