What are PFAS? Why ‘forever chemicals’ in clothing are drawing health concerns

By Karys Belger | Fox 26 | April 14, 2026

Read the full article by Karys Belger (Fox 26)

"A Texas investigation into Lululemon is drawing new attention to PFAS, a group of chemicals that have been used for decades in everything from cookware to waterproof products and are now at the center of growing health concerns.

While the state’s investigation focuses on whether PFAS may be present in some Lululemon apparel and whether the company’s marketing and testing practices hold up to scrutiny, the bigger question for many consumers is simpler: what exactly are PFAS, and why are doctors and regulators paying so much attention to them now?

What are PFAS?

What we know:

PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. They are often called "forever chemicals", because they are extremely slow to break down. According to the EPA background cited in FOX reporting, PFAS have been used in industry and consumer products since the 1940s. Dr. Benedict Ifedi, a primary care sports medicine physician who spoke with FOX 26, said they have been used in products such as nonstick pans, waterproof clothing, carpets, and some water supplies."

This content provided by the PFAS Project.