Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated a probe to determine if Fruit of the Loom and Hanes incorporate harmful chemicals in the manufacturing process of children’s undergarments. Paxton has issued formal requests for information to both companies, expressing concerns about potential health risks to children from these chemicals. Neither company has been accused of any wrongdoing.
Fruit of the Loom and its parent company, Berkshire Hathaway, have not yet responded to Reuters’ inquiries. On the other hand, Gildan Activewear, the Canadian owner of Hanes, has stated its willingness to cooperate with the investigation. Gildan emphasized its adherence to strict manufacturing and sourcing standards aligned with industry guidelines to ensure the absence of harmful chemicals in its products.
Paxton highlighted the growing trend among clothing manufacturers to use synthetic materials like polyester, rayon, and spandex to meet consumer demands for affordable items. Research indicates that synthetic fabrics can release microplastics, while chemicals such as bisphenols, fluorine, parabens, phthalates, and “forever chemicals” commonly found in textile manufacturing have been linked to serious health issues like cancer, hormone disruption, and infertility.
The term “forever chemicals” refers to PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. Paxton emphasized the need to safeguard children’s health by ensuring that essential products are free from toxic substances. This investigation follows a similar inquiry by Paxton in April into the presence of “forever chemicals” in Lululemon Athletica activewear.
In a statement, Gildan reaffirmed its commitment to providing safe and high-quality products for consumers. Last year, Gildan merged with HanesBrands Inc. in a $2.2 billion deal. Paxton, a Republican, is currently vying for a U.S. Senate seat against Democrat James Talarico, with polls showing him trailing in the race, making it one of the closely watched contests in the upcoming midterm elections on November 3.