In recent years, there have been increasing concerns about the presence of harmful chemicals in our everyday products. One such chemical, Bisphenol A (BPA), has now been found in clothing and popular shoe brands, raising alarm bells for consumers. BPA is a chemical compound commonly used to make certain types of plastics, and research has linked it to various health problems, including asthma, cardiovascular disease, and obesity. Let’s look at the issue of BPAs found in clothing and which brands are the heavy hitters.
The Impact of BPA
Bisphenol A, or BPA, has been extensively studied for its potential health risks. Exposure to BPA has been associated with diabetes, heart disease, cancer, obesity, and even erectile dysfunction. Furthermore, recent studies have indicated a link between BPA exposure and asthma in school-age girls. The concern about the presence of BPA in clothing and popular shoe brands stems from the fact that people can be exposed to BPA through ingestion from eating food or drinking water from containers that have leached BPA, or by absorption through the skin. (1)
This will also have an impact on pregnant women. BPA can be absorbed through the skin and has been shown to pass through it into the bloodstream. When a person is exposed to BPA, it can affect hormone levels and cause changes in the body’s metabolism. The effects of BPA on human health are still being studied. We are still not fully aware of how this could impact a developing fetus.
The Investigation by the Center for Environmental Health
The Center for Environmental Health (CEH), a nonprofit consumer advocacy group, has recently conducted a study on the presence of BPA in athletic clothing. Their research has revealed worrisome levels of BPAs in several well-known athletic wear brands. The CEH has alerted consumers about the potential health risks associated with these products and has taken legal action against a number of companies. (2)
Read: “Forever Chemicals” Makers Covered Up Health Risks For Decades, Secret Documents Reveal
List of Brands Affected by BPA
The following is a list of shoe and clothing brands that have been identified to contain worrisome levels of BPAs, based on the investigation conducted by the Center for Environmental Health (3):
- Athleta
- Champion
- Kohl’s
- Nike
- Patagonia
- Sweaty Betty
- Fabletics
- Adidas
- The North Face
- Brooks
- Mizuno
- New Balance
- Reebok
- PINK (owned by Victoria’s Secret)
- FILA
It’s important to note that the presence of BPA was predominantly found in polyester-based clothing containing spandex. The CEH is urging these brands to reformulate their products to remove all bisphenols, including BPA.
Response from Brands
When approached for comment, some of the brands affected by the investigation responded. Athleta, for example, stated that they are committed to ensuring all their products meet applicable safety standards and believe that the CEH claims have no merit. It is necessary for these brands to address and rectify the issue to ensure consumer safety and well-being. A spokesperson for Athleta said this:
“As a certified B-Corp, Athleta is deeply committed to ensuring all our products are made to applicable safety standards. We believe the CEH claims have no merit and stand by our products and practices.”
The Bottom Line
The presence of worrisome levels of BPAs in clothing and popular shoe brands has raised concerns about the potential health risks associated with these products. The investigation conducted by the Center for Environmental Health has shed light on this issue and has prompted action to be taken by both consumers and the brands involved. It is crucial for consumers to stay informed about the potential dangers posed by harmful chemicals in everyday products and for brands to prioritize the health and safety of their customers by reformulating their products to remove toxic chemicals like BPA.
Keep Reading: Common Dry Cleaning Chemical Linked to 500% Increased Risk of Parkinson’s Disease
Sources
- “What is BPA, and what are the concerns about BPA?” Mayo Clinic. Brent A. Bauer, M.D.
- “Your athletic wear could contain high levels of BPA: Here’s a list of brands affected.” CBS News. May 18, 2023.
- “Worrisome BPA Levels Found In Sportswear By Nike, Adidas, Patagonia And More, Group Alleges.” Forbes. Arianna Johnson. May 18, 2023.