Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton launched an investigation into Lululemon regarding allegations the athleisure brand used PFAS in workout gear. The company responded that it phased out these "forever chemicals" as of January 2024, following growing consumer concerns about potential health risks from substances that don't break down in the environment.

PFAS have been used since the 1940s in various consumer products for their water and stain resistance. Lululemon confirmed it previously utilized the chemicals in durable water-repellent garments, which represented a small portion of its product line. The investigation comes as scrutiny increases over potentially harmful chemicals in everyday items.

The probe could impact Lululemon's reputation and potentially lead to regulatory action if findings show continued use. The company's claim of discontinuing PFAS use by January 2024 might be difficult to verify given the chemicals' persistence in products and supply chains. Retailers face mounting pressure to eliminate potentially harmful substances from their offerings amid growing consumer awareness about potential health issues like cancer and infertility linked to PFAS exposure.