In a move that has captured widespread attention, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is spearheading an investigation into the popular fitness brand Lululemon, focusing on the potential presence of hazardous ‘forever chemicals’ in their athletic apparel.

On Monday, Paxton announced his pursuit of critical documents to determine whether Lululemon’s products contain PFAS, a group of chemicals notoriously difficult to break down, often referred to as ‘forever chemicals.’

PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are compounds known for their persistence in both the environment and the human body. They can leach from products such as nonstick cookware, waterproof fabrics, and food containers, subsequently accumulating in vital organs. This accumulation is linked to severe health risks, including organ failure, reproductive challenges, and certain cancers.

The ubiquity of PFAS exposure is alarming, with virtually every person encountering these chemicals regularly, even prior to birth. This widespread presence underscores the importance of scrutinizing companies for their potential contributions to the problem.

The investigation targets whether Lululemon has misrepresented the safety and composition of its apparel, potentially misleading consumers regarding the presence of PFAS in its products.

Paxton highlighted the company’s public image, noting, “The company markets itself as a wellness-focused lifestyle brand emphasizing sustainability and performance.” This investigation seeks to determine whether such claims align with their products’ actual chemical makeup.

‘However, emerging research and consumer concerns have raised questions about the potential presence of certain synthetic materials and chemicals compounds in their apparel that may be associated with endocrine disruption, infertility, cancer and other health issues.’ 

Paxton did not specify which products he was speculating had PFAS or specific evidence pointing to the contaminants in Lululemon’s products. 

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is launching an investigation into fitness giant Lululemon over products potentially containing ‘forever chemicals’ (file photo)

When approached for comment, a Lululemon company spokesperson told the Daily Mail: ‘Lululemon does not use PFAS in its products. The company phased out the substance in FY23, which had been used in durable water repellent products, a small percentage of our assortment.

‘The health and safety of our guests is paramount, and our products meet or exceed global regulatory, safety, and quality standards. We require all our vendors to regularly conduct testing for restricted substances, including PFAS, by credible third-party agencies to confirm ongoing compliance.

‘We are aware of the inquiry from the Texas Office of the Attorney General and are cooperating by providing the requested documentation.

‘More information on our policies, including our Restricted Substances program, is publicly available on our website.’ 

The company phasing out PFAS was noted in its 2024 impact report. 

Paxton said his office’s investigation will review the company’s ‘Restricted Substances List, testing protocols, and supply chain practices to determine whether Lululemon’s products comply with its stated safety standards.’ 

‘Americans should not have to worry if they are being deceived when trying to make healthy choices for themselves and their families,’ Paxton (pictured above) said Monday 

The company’s Restricted Substances list includes bisphenol-A (BPA), which is used to improve durability and add moisture-wicking in clothing but has been linked to reproductive issues, obesity, diabetes, heart disease and hormone-dependent cancers such as breast cancer. 

Lululemon reported $11.1 billion in net revenue for fiscal year 2025 and has built its brand around premium, wellness-focused athletic wear. The brand’s shares fell by as much as 4.5 percent after Paxton’s announcement. 

‘Americans should not have to worry if they are being deceived when trying to make healthy choices for themselves and their families,’ Paxton said. ‘I will not allow any corporation to sell harmful, toxic materials to consumers at a premium price under the guise of wellness and sustainability. 

‘If Lululemon has violated Texas law, it will be held accountable.’

Last year, Texas lawmakers introduced a bill to study and limit PFAS use in the state, though the legislation failed. 

Paxton has also previously sued major PFAS manufacturers like 3M and DuPont over alleged long-term deceptive marketing of products containing forever chemicals.