Lululemon faced a new regulatory challenge in Texas after the state attorney general announced a probe into whether the company’s athletic apparel contains PFAS, a class of synthetic chemicals that do not break down easily and has been linked in emerging research to potential health risks. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s office said Monday that the review stems from “emerging research and consumer concerns” about PFAS and other synthetic materials, as well as questions about whether consumers can rely on brands’ safety and wellness claims.
In the announcement, Paxton’s office said the investigation concerns whether Lululemon’s clothing contains PFAS, also described as perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, and what the company’s products contain in practice compared with what shoppers might expect based on the brand’s marketing. The office said shoppers would not expect such chemical compounds based on Lululemon’s positioning on wellness and sustainability, according to the statement.
The probe will include a review of Lululemon’s “restricted substances” list, its testing protocols, and practices across its supply network to determine whether the company’s products comply with its stated safety standards. In a statement, Paxton said: “Americans should not have to worry if they are being deceived when trying to make healthy choices for themselves and their families.”
Lululemon, based in Vancouver, Canada, responded that it was aware of the inquiry and said it is cooperating by providing requested documentation. The company told The Associated Press that it hadn’t used PFAS in its products since it phased out the substances as of early 2024, and it said PFAS had been used only in durable water repellent products—a small share of its overall assortment.
The probe comes as Lululemon has been dealing with other leadership and business challenges. The company has been searching for its CEO after Calvin McDonald stepped down in January amid sluggish sales and quality issues, and its founder, Chip Wilson, has urged changes to the board.
In March, Lululemon’s board named Chip Bergh, former president and CEO of Levi Strauss & Co., to its board, replacing long-time board member David Mussafer, chairman and managing partner of private equity firm Advent International. Shares of Lululemon were down less than 1% in trading on Monday.