The European Union is moving to control the flood of fast-fashion imports, with new rules requiring electronic tracking for millions of daily parcels. Consumer groups and authorities report alarming rates of toxic chemicals in products from major platforms.
According to the consumer organization BEUC, an estimated 69% of evaluated products entering the EU from platforms like Shein and Temu are non-compliant with basic safety and health standards.
Laboratory tests have consistently found hazardous substances. Greenpeace discovered phthalates at levels up to 200 times the EU limit. PFAS, known as "forever chemicals," were found in jackets, some exceeding limits by over 3,000 times. Heavy metals like lead and cadmium were also detected in shoes and jewelry.
These chemicals are linked to serious health risks. "These are chemicals we have known for decades are harmful," said BEUC's chemical expert Pelle Moos. "Chemicals that may cause cancer, infertility, developmental problems in children."
The health risks are compounded by how people wear clothes. Body heat and sweat can cause chemicals to leach into the skin. Children are particularly vulnerable, as they may chew on clothing. The EU's new customs directive aims to allow border authorities to screen shipments for illegal chemical levels before they enter the bloc.