Camilla Jessen
A new test reveals PFAS chemicals in jackets from Temu and Shein.
They arrive in colorful packages, cost next to nothing, and promise trendy looks in a few clicks.
But behind the appealing prices of clothes from online giants like Temu and Shein lies a far more troubling reality: toxic chemicals seeping into everyday wardrobes.
A recent test conducted by the Danish Consumer Council Think Chemistry has exposed dangerously high levels of PFAS—also known as “forever chemicals”—in jackets from popular online marketplaces.
Of the 17 jackets tested, 13 contained PFAS, and in 12 cases the concentration exceeded EU legal limits.
PFAS: The Hidden Risk in Your Raincoat
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of thousands of synthetic chemicals widely used for their water- and grease-resistant properties.
They’re found in everything from outdoor clothing and shoes to food packaging and cosmetics.
But while they keep clothes dry and stain-free, these chemicals don’t disappear. PFAS are nearly impossible to break down, persisting in the environment and accumulating in human bodies over time. Their impact is severe—linked to hormone disruption, weakened immune responses, and even cancer.
These risks are amplified when products come from online platforms based outside the EU, where chemical regulations are less strictly enforced.
According to the test, sellers on Temu, Shein, and Amazon were behind the majority of the problematic products, highlighting the difficulty of regulating cross-border e-commerce.
What you can do now
While legislative action is in motion, there are steps consumers can take today to minimize exposure:
- Buy from EU-based sellers to ensure compliance with regional chemical standards.
- Look for certifications like OEKO-TEX that guarantee strict control over harmful substances.
- Prefer reputable brands that prioritize transparency and safety.
- Wash new clothes before use to reduce surface chemical residues.
- Ask questions: Contact the manufacturer if you’re unsure about a product’s chemical contents.
Navigating online shopping can be complex, but increasing awareness from scientists, politicians, and consumer advocates is helping consumers make better choices.
The article is based on a press release from Via Ritzau.