Shein clothing found with chemicals up to 12,000 times EU limits; DUH issues formal warning
Laboratory tests on 18 Shein garments detected PFAS and phthalate levels far above European safety thresholds, including a children's jacket with a PFAS concentration more than 1,100 times the legal limit.
What the tests found
The Bremen Environmental Institute tested 18 clothing items bought on Shein on behalf of the German environmental action group Deutsche Umwelthilfe (DUH). Seven articles violated EU chemical limits. In a children's jacket, one PFAS substance exceeded the limit by a factor of more than 1,100; in a jacket marketed to teenagers the overrun reached more than 12,000 times the permitted level. A pair of women's lace-up boots contained 179,000 milligrams per kilogram of the plasticizer DEHP, where the legal ceiling is 1,000 mg/kg.
- Children's jacket (PFAS)
- 1100 times the legal limit
- Teen's jacket (PFAS)
- 12000 times the legal limit
- Women's boots (DEHP)
- 179 times the legal limit
Health risks
PFAS are so-called forever chemicals that accumulate in the human body and the environment. The German Environment Agency notes that certain PFAS can affect metabolism, hormones and the immune system; some are suspected of being carcinogenic. Phthalates like DEHP have hormone-like properties and can impair fertility.
We have found a whole range of different chemicals in the products — from heavy metals to plasticizers to several PFAS. It is a colourful cocktail of chemicals, including some that may not be strictly regulated but can still pose a health risk.
Shein’s response
Shein said it takes the accusations very seriously and is reviewing the facts. Until the investigation concludes, the affected products will be removed from sale worldwide under the company’s product safety guidelines. Shein added that it requires merchants and suppliers to comply with internal and applicable product safety standards and works with internationally recognised testing bodies, including TÜV Süd.
Wider context
Shein is not the only fast-fashion discounter drawing scrutiny. The EU Commission recently fined competitor Temu €200 million, partly over safety concerns with chargers and excessive chemicals in children's toys. Temu called the penalty disproportionate and argued the decision reflected a 2024 risk assessment that no longer mirrors current systems.
Next steps
The DUH has sent a formal cease-and-desist letter to Shein. The group plans further tests across other online platforms and is urging EU regulators to tighten enforcement against chemical contaminants in imported textiles.
