Cloaked in Toxins: The Alarming Presence of PFAS in Our Clothing

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In a worldwide study, IPEN and Arnika tested jackets and clothing from 13 countries for toxic PFAS, revealing a startling 65% of the products tested positive.

Jackets marketed as water- or stain-resistant, especially those for children, were sampled from Germany to the U.S., uncovering a pervasive use of PFAS.

With thousands of PFAS varieties, two types of tests were conducted, revealing that 65.3% of the 72 samples contained PFAS or had EOF levels indicating their presence.

Alarmingly, 16 jacket samples exceeded proposed EU limits, with PFOA, a globally banned and highly toxic PFAS, found in 17 outdoor jackets.

Expanding beyond jackets, 68.8% of other clothing samples, including aprons and swimsuits, also contained PFAS or indicated their presence.

Identifying 15 PFAS in the analyzed clothing, the study highlighted the presence of polymeric PFAS, such as 6:2 FTOH, with serious environmental implications.

Worryingly, the study emphasized that PFAS-treated clothing, seldom recycled, contributes to environmental contamination when landfilled or incinerated.

Amidst the shadows, glimmers of hope emerge. Responsible companies like North Face and Black Diamond produce PFAS-free jackets, proving safer alternatives exist.

While some PFAS are regulated, the study emphasizes the inadequacy of the current approach, advocating for a universal, class-based ban on PFAS to protect the environment and human health.

A collective call to action: awareness, responsibility, and demand for PFAS-free fashion. Let's rewrite the narrative and reshape the fashion industry's toxic legacy.

We empower readers to make informed choices, supporting companies committed to PFAS-free practices and fostering a global movement for cleaner, safer clothing.