Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has said that his office will investigate whether materials used by clothing brands Hanes and Fruit of the Loom to produce children’s undergarments contain toxic chemicals.
In an Oct. 6 statement, Paxton said that clothing retailers have increasingly turned to lower-cost synthetic materials such as polyester, rayon, and spandex to keep their prices competitive and meet consumer demand.
He pointed to research showing that synthetic fabrics can shed microplastics and that certain chemicals used in textile production—such as bisphenols, phthalates, parabens, fluorine, and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)—have been associated with infertility, cancer, and other health risks.
PFAS are synthetic chemicals used in consumer and industrial products, commonly known as “forever chemicals” due to their inability to degrade and tendency to accumulate in human bodies and the environment.
Paxton also raised concerns over potential exposure to certain substances through prolonged skin contact.
“We must protect our children who cannot yet protect themselves. This includes making sure that the necessities parents rely on are free from toxic chemicals and do not harm the health of kids,” Paxton said in the statement.
Paxton said he had issued civil investigative demands to both Hanes and Fruit of the Loom as part of the probe, but did not specify why the companies were being targeted.
The state attorney general noted that he would take action if the companies were found to have harmed Texas consumers.
Gildan Activewear, the parent company of Hanes, said it will cooperate with the investigation and maintain strict manufacturing and sourcing standards to comply with industry guidelines on harmful chemicals.
“We remain committed to providing safe, high-quality products for consumers,” the company said in a statement.
The Epoch Times reached out to Fruit of the Loom for comment but did not receive a response by the time of publication.
In April, Paxton also launched an investigation into athletic wear company Lululemon to determine whether its apparel contains PFAS.
Forever chemicals have also been linked to liver and thyroid problems as well as fetal developmental issues, according to the Natural Resources Defense Council.
Paxton said his office will review the company’s restricted substances list, testing protocols, and supply chain practices to determine whether its products meet the safety standards.
He also issued a civil investigative demand as part of the probe to determine whether Lululemon had misled its customers about the safety and quality of its apparel.
“Americans should not have to worry if they are being deceived when trying to make healthy choices for themselves and their families,” he 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.”
In response, Lululemon said on April 13 that it was cooperating with the state attorney general’s office and emphasized that it has not used PFAS in its products. The company said the chemicals were previously used in durable water repellent products but were phased out in fiscal year 2023.
Reuters contributed to this report.
