Texas AG Investigates Lululemon Over "Forever Chemicals" in Activewear

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched a formal investigation into popular athletic apparel brand Lululemon, targeting potential contamination of its products with PFAS — commonly known as "forever chemicals." The announcement was made Monday via Paxton's official X account, raising serious concerns among the brand's health-conscious consumer base.

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are synthetic compounds widely used across various industries. They earn their "forever chemicals" nickname because they resist natural breakdown, potentially accumulating in the human body and the environment over time. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, PFAS exposure has been linked to a range of serious health issues, including endocrine disruption, infertility, and certain forms of cancer.

Paxton's office argues that if Lululemon's activewear contains these substances, the brand may have misled consumers whose purchasing decisions are heavily influenced by the company's wellness-forward marketing. The investigation will scrutinize Lululemon's testing protocols, restricted substances list, and supply chain transparency against Texas state safety standards.

Lululemon has firmly denied wrongdoing. A company spokesperson stated that Lululemon does not use PFAS in its products, noting the substance was phased out in fiscal year 2023 following limited use in durable water-repellent items. The company confirmed it is aware of the inquiry and is cooperating with state authorities.

This latest development adds to a difficult stretch for the Canadian athleisure giant. Lululemon recently pulled its "Get Low" workout collection from its website after widespread customer complaints and is currently navigating an ongoing proxy dispute with its founder. The company has also projected weaker-than-expected annual results amid softening consumer demand, even as it strengthens its leadership team with the addition of a former Levi Strauss executive to its board.