Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated an investigation into Lululemon, a Canadian athletic apparel company, regarding the presence of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in its products. This move follows concerns over the potential health impacts of these “forever chemicals.” Paxton’s office issued a Civil Investigative Demand to Lululemon’s US subsidiary to determine if the company has accurately informed consumers about the safety and quality of its products.
The investigation aims to ascertain whether Lululemon’s athletic wear contains PFAS, substances that health-conscious consumers may not anticipate based on the brand’s image as a wellness and sustainability-focused company. Additionally, the attorney general’s office will scrutinize Lululemon’s Restricted Substances List, testing procedures, and supply chain operations to evaluate compliance with stated safety standards. The company has denied using PFAS in its products, stating that it phased out these substances in fiscal year 2023, except for a limited number of water-repellent items.
Lululemon emphasized that its merchandise meets or surpasses global regulatory, safety, and quality benchmarks. The company mandates vendors to conduct routine third-party testing for restricted substances, including PFAS, to ensure ongoing adherence to regulations. Acknowledging the inquiry, Lululemon affirmed its cooperation by providing the necessary documentation.
Studies indicate that PFAS, a category of more than 14,000 synthetic chemicals utilized in various industries and consumer goods, may lead to adverse health effects. These effects include potential links to cancer, elevated cholesterol levels, and impacts on the immune system.
