Seoul Finds Toxic Chemicals in Shein and Temu Footwear and Apparel

In a developing consumer safety concern, the Seoul Metropolitan Government has identified dangerous levels of toxic substances in products sold by online fashion retailers Shein and Temu. After a thorough inspection, an alarming 144 products from these brands did not conform to the established legal standards.

Shein's products, particularly shoes, contained phthalates at concentrations up to 229 times the legally allowed limit. Phthalates are additives that render plastics more pliable, but they harbor risks to reproductive health, including impacts on sperm count and even potential infertility. More ominously, they could be a factor in the premature birth of a child. Authorities have emphasized the grave importance of minimizing long-term exposure to these chemicals, especially since certain plasticizers in this category have been deemed ‘human carcinogens’ by the International Cancer Institute.

Astonishingly, Shein's woes with toxic substances do not end there. Formaldehyde, commonly used in construction materials, was also found at double the permissible levels in the brand's caps. Even more distressing, Shein's nail polish contained dioxane and excessive methanol, both harmful when absorbed by the human body, with dioxane acknowledged as another possible human carcinogen.

In the face of these findings, Shein has reiterated its confidence in the third-party testing agencies it works with to ensure product safety. The company claims to adhere strictly to international safety standards, demanding the same from its suppliers.

Despite these assertions, the Seoul authorities discovered alarmingly high lead contents—over eleven times above the legal limit—in Temu sandals. As a response to the communication from Seoul officials, Temu has initiated an internal investigation, removed the offending product listings, and promised to reinforce merchant compliance with safety standards.

Seoul's government takes these violations seriously, having requested the withdrawal of these hazardous products from the market. With items including leather sandals and hats coming into direct contact with the consumer's body, the risk is pronounced. Seoul health officials, led by Kim Tae-hee, have alerted the public to exercise caution and have pledged to keep up regular safety checks and public reporting.

It is imperative for consumers to stay informed about product safety notices and to remain vigilant when purchasing from global online retailers. This case serves as a stark reminder of the critical role regulatory bodies play in safeguarding public health and the ongoing need for transparency and compliance in the manufacturing and retail sectors.