According to the fashion watchdog Instagram account @diet_prada, Lululemon is currently under investigation in Texas for potentially using toxic PFAS in its apparel. This is not the first time Lululemon has faced allegations about PFAS, as these chemicals have been found in its products before. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton stated he would not allow corporations to sell harmful materials under false pretenses.
PFAS, commonly referred to as 'forever chemicals' due to their extreme resistance to water stains and biodegradation, remain intact in landfills for thousands of years. Environmental journalist Lucy Siegle described how PFAS have been linked to lasting impacts on reproduction, development, and immune function in animals and humans. Some common PFAS, such as PFOA and PFOS, are so toxic they have been linked to cancer.
There is no research to suggest PFAS are stable as they get hotter with rising temperatures during workouts. PFAS are more commonly used in car and floor polish, rinse aid for dishwashers, frying pans, and firefighting foam. In athleisure wear, PFAS finishes can wash out into waterways, accumulate in wildlife, and rise up the food chain, with no way to get rid of them once released.
Independent testing in 2022 found fluorine, a common indicator of PFAS, in products from Athleta, Old Navy, Vuori, and Yogalicious. Other brands that committed to phasing out PFAS from manufacturing entirely include M&S, H&M, and Tesco. Lululemon insists that they phased out PFAS in 2023.
The investigation raises questions about what specific PFAS chemicals are allegedly present in Lululemon's current products and what evidence prompted the Texas Attorney General's action. It remains unclear how widespread PFAS use is in the activewear industry beyond the brands mentioned and what the exact health risks are to consumers from wearing PFAS-treated activewear during exercise.