On Tuesday, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton initiated an inquiry regarding the potential use of hazardous substances in the production of children’s underwear by Fruit of the Loom and Hanes.
Paxton indicated that he has issued civil investigative demands to both Fruit of the Loom, a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, and Hanes, owned by Gildan Activewear from Canada, spotlighting the possible health implications of these chemicals on children.
He has not alleged any misconduct against either company.
Neither Fruit of the Loom nor Berkshire Hathaway responded immediately to Reuters’ requests for comments.
Gildan, based in Montreal, stated its willingness to cooperate with the investigation and emphasized its adherence to rigorous manufacturing and sourcing standards to align with industry regulations concerning harmful chemicals.
In a statement to Reuters, the company asserted, “We remain dedicated to offering safe, high-quality products to consumers.”
Last year, Gildan merged with Massachusetts-based HanesBrands Inc. in a $2.2 billion US agreement.
Paxton noted that clothing manufacturers have increasingly adopted synthetic fabrics like polyester, rayon, and spandex to satisfy consumer demands for more affordable options.
Research suggests that synthetic materials can release microplastics, and chemicals such as bisphenols, fluorine, parabens, phthalates, and “forever chemicals” utilized in textile production have been linked to various health issues, including cancer, hormonal disruptions, and infertility.
“Forever chemicals,” also referred to as PFAS, stand for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances.
“We must safeguard our children who are unable to protect themselves,” Paxton stated in a press release.
“This entails ensuring that essential items parents depend on are free from toxic substances and do not endanger children’s health.”
Earlier in April, the attorney general announced a similar investigation regarding the possibility of “forever chemicals” in the activewear of Vancouver-based Lululemon Athletica, which are known for their persistence in the environment.
Paxton, a Republican, is currently campaigning for a U.S. Senate position against Democrat James Talarico, who is leading in many opinion polls.
The upcoming election is considered one of the most closely monitored races in the midterm elections scheduled for November 3.
Canada is moving closer to officially categorizing a significant range of PFAS — a class of chemicals found in various products from food containers to clothing — as toxic substances.