Two clothing companies are under investigation by Attorney General Ken Paxton for possibly having toxic chemicals in children’s undergarments.
The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) noted that because of fast fashion’s rising popularity, many companies use cheaper, synthetic materials to keep pace with the market.
Common synthetic materials can include plastic-derived materials or chemical-intensive manufacturing processes. Often treated by extreme heat and chemicals, synthetic materials are especially popular in affordable options.
However, Paxton raised the concern that materials created in these chemical-involved processes could have a negative effect on consumers’ health.
He issued civil investigative demands to Hanes and Fruit of the Loom to find out more about the companies’ processes and materials.
“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,” said Paxton.
According to Paxton’s office, “research has found that synthetic fabrics can shed microplastics, and certain chemicals like bisphenols, phthalates, PFAS, parabens, and fluorine used in textile manufacturing have been associated with endocrine disruption, infertility, cancer, and other health concerns.”
A spokesperson for Gildan, owner of Hanes, told Texas Scorecard the company will cooperate with the investigation and provide the requested information. “The safety and quality of our products are a top priority,” the spokesperson added. “We maintain strict manufacturing and sourcing standards and require compliance with industry-recognized Restricted Substance List (RSL) requirements, which include, but are not limited to, requirements of California’s Proposition 65.”
“Our vertically integrated business model gives us significant oversight throughout the manufacturing process, helping us uphold rigorous quality, safety, and sourcing standards across our supply chain,” they added. “We remain committed to providing safe, high-quality products for consumers.”
A recent health report by the Environmental Justice Foundation (EJF) noted possible dangers of exposing children to microplastics and toxic chemicals.
Bisphenol A (BPA) exposure showed increased insulin resistance, obesity, and hypertension.
Exposure to phthalates was associated with increased insulin resistance, adverse cognitive development and IQ loss, elevated blood pressure, and asthma.
PFAs caused changes in thyroid function, increased BMI, obesity, and ADHD in girls.
EJF found that 92.8 percent of plastic chemicals used in textiles present a high health risk, and 75.3 percent of chemicals in textiles do not have available data on toxicity and exposure.
The report also found that present chemicals can be inhaled through airborne microplastics during the washing and drying of synthetic textiles.
A similar OAG investigation launched in April against Lululemon researched potential “forever chemicals” in activewear. The OAG stated that it would review the company’s Restricted Substances List, testing protocols, and supply chain practices to determine if it complies with safety standards.
The OAG also began investigating popular women’s brands for alleged toxic chemicals to advance the Make America Healthy Again agenda. The Hanes and Fruit of the Loom investigation has a similar goal of discovering unsafe amounts of toxic chemicals.
“I am now looking into major children’s clothing brands to ensure that their products do not contain harmful materials. Too many corners have been cut by corporations in this country, and I will continue to hold them accountable. If any corporation is harming Texas consumers, I will go after them. I will continue fighting for the health, well-being, and safety of the people of Texas,” stated Paxton.
Fruit of the Loom has not responded to a request for comment at the time of publication.
