Texas authorities have launched an investigation into Lululemon Athletica over concerns the company’s apparel may contain potentially harmful “forever chemicals,” raising fresh scrutiny on sustainability claims within the global activewear sector.
The probe, led by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, is examining whether Lululemon used per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in its products and whether the company misled consumers about the safety and environmental impact of its merchandise.
PFAS, commonly used in textiles for water- and stain-resistant properties, are known for their persistence in the environment and the human body. Often referred to as “forever chemicals,” they have been linked in various studies to potential health risks, including hormone disruption and certain cancers.
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The investigation is also expected to assess whether Lululemon’s marketing and sustainability messaging align with its historical or current use of such substances, as regulators globally intensify oversight of greenwashing practices.
In response, Lululemon has said it does not currently use PFAS in its products and had already phased out limited applications of these chemicals in previous years. The company added that its products comply with international safety standards and that it is cooperating with authorities.
The case highlights increasing regulatory and consumer pressure on apparel brands to provide greater transparency around chemical usage and supply chains, particularly as sustainability claims become a key driver of brand value and purchasing decisions.
While the investigation remains at an early stage and no wrongdoing has been established, its outcome could have broader implications for the activewear and textile industries as scrutiny over chemical compliance and environmental accountability continues to grow.
