Texas AG opens probe into Lululemon for alleged 'forever chemicals'
Texas AG opens probe into Lululemon for alleged 'forever chemicals'
Natalie Neysa Alund, USA TODAYMon, April 13, 2026 at 8:40 PM UTC
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Lululemon at Jordan Creek Towne Center on Friday, Oct. 31, 2025, in West Des Moines.
The top prosecutor in Texas announced on April 13 that his office had launched an investigation into Lululemon over the potential presence of toxic "forever chemicals" in the activewear, despite the company claiming the allegation is false.
Attorney General Ken Paxton said he opened the probe to determine whether the clothing company had misled consumers about the safety, quality and health impacts of its products.
According to a news release, the company markets itself as a lifestyle-wellness brand, emphasizing sustainability and performance, but "emerging research and consumer concerns have raised questions about the possible presence of certain synthetic materials and chemical compounds in their apparel that may be associated with endocrine disruption, infertility, cancer and other health issues."
"Americans should not have to worry if they are being deceived when trying to make healthy choices for themselves and their families," Paxton wrote in the release. "I will not allow any corporation to sell harmful materials to consumers at a premium price under the guise of wellness and sustainability."
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton speaks during the Conservative Political Action Conference USA 2026 at the Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center, in Grapevine, Texas, U.S., March 28, 2026.
Lululemon said it was aware of the probe and "cooperating with the Texas Office of the Attorney General."
"Lululemon does not use PFAS in its products," the company wrote in an April 13 email to USA TODAY. "The company phased out the substance in FY23, which had been used in durable water repellent products, a small percentage of our assortment.
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The company said the health and safety of its customers "is paramount," and its 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," the company said.
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What are forever chemicals?
Forever chemicals stay in the environment long after their intended use and have been associated with long-term illnesses, including cancer and other health problems. They're most commonly known for their use in nonstick cookware and waterproof or stain-resistant products. Critics have raised the alarm for their potential toxicity.
Their use has led to lawsuits by towns and cities across the U.S. seeking funds to purify water. Firefighters and other first responders who believe the chemicals impacted their health have also filed suits.
Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X @nataliealund.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Texas AG probes Lululemon over 'forever chemicals' in activewear
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