
Apparel Regulation · Lululemon · PFAS · Texas AG
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton initiated an investigation into Lululemon Athletica Inc.
for the alleged presence of "forever chemicals" (PFAS) in its apparel, causing Lululemon shares to drop as much as 4.5% in New York trading Monday. Paxton's office stated the probe will examine whether Lululemon's athletic apparel contains PFAS, which health-conscious customers would not expect based on the brand's marketing.
Polyfluoroalkyl chemicals, known as PFAS, are used in hundreds of products for their slippery, non-stick, or stain-resistant properties and have been linked to health problems like cancer and poor immune health in studies. Lululemon previously aimed to limit PFAS use, as indicated in a 2024 document.
This investigation adds to Lululemon's existing challenges, which include tapering sales growth, resurfacing quality issues, and a founder advocating for a board overhaul, all while the company searches for a permanent chief executive officer. Paxton is also suing Chinese fast-fashion company Shein for similar PFAS claims and has initiated other health-related investigations under the "Make America Healthy Again" agenda, targeting companies like WK Kellogg Co.
and Procter & Gamble Co.