A recent Greenpeace probe revealed that a jacket from online retailer Shein, shipped to Israel, contained PFAS chemicals at levels 3,269 times above European Union safety standards. The investigation, released in November 2025, tested 56 clothing items from eight countries and highlighted ongoing issues with hazardous substances in fast fashion products.
Greenpeace Uncovers High Chemical Levels in Shein Products
Greenpeace Germany led the study, buying items from Shein websites in countries like Israel, Germany, and Spain. They sent these to a lab in Bremen for analysis.
The focus was on chemicals such as PFAS, known as forever chemicals because they do not break down easily. Out of 56 items, 18 showed hazardous chemicals exceeding EU limits under REACH regulations.
This marks the latest in a series of reports on Shein. A 2022 Greenpeace investigation first flagged similar problems, and now in 2025, the group notes little improvement despite public scrutiny.
Experts say these findings point to broader supply chain flaws in ultra-fast fashion, where low costs often mean cutting corners on safety.
Shocking Results from Items Shipped to Israel
In Israel, testers bought five items, including the standout jacket. Lab results showed PFAS at 850 milligrams per kilogram, far over the EU cap of 0.26 milligrams per kilogram.
A pair of women’s sandals also failed, with high phthalates that can harm hormones and development.
Greenpeace reported that four out of five Israeli items had hazardous materials, with two breaking EU rules outright.
These results align with tests in other nations. For example, a children’s costume in Germany had excessive formaldehyde, a known irritant.
Here is a summary of key findings from the Israel tests:
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- Jacket: PFAS levels 3,269 times above EU limit, linked to cancer risks.
- Sandals: Phthalates exceeding standards, tied to fertility issues.
- Other items: Traces of heavy metals and dyes, though below violation thresholds.
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Health Risks and Environmental Impact of These Chemicals
PFAS exposure has been connected to serious health problems. Studies from health organizations show links to cancer, immune system damage, and child development issues.
Phthalates, found in the sandals, disrupt hormones and affect growth in kids. They also harm marine life when washed into waterways.
On the environmental side, these forever chemicals persist in soil and water for decades. Fast fashion contributes to pollution, with Shein producing billions of garments yearly.
Recent data from 2025 environmental reports estimate that textile waste, including chemical runoff, accounts for up to 20 percent of global water pollution.
A table below outlines common chemicals in the probe and their effects:
| Chemical | Common Use | Health Risks | EU Limit Exceeded in Probe |
|---|---|---|---|
| PFAS | Waterproofing | Cancer, immune damage | Yes, in jacket by 3,269 times |
| Phthalates | Softening fabrics | Hormone disruption, fertility issues | Yes, in sandals |
| Formaldehyde | Wrinkle resistance | Skin irritation, respiratory problems | Yes, in some children’s items |
| Heavy metals | Dyes | Toxicity to organs | Detected but not always over limits |
This data draws from the 2025 Greenpeace report and aligns with global health agency warnings.
Broader trends show fast fashion giants like Shein facing lawsuits and bans in some areas. For instance, in 2024, several EU countries tightened import rules on chemical-laden goods.
Shein’s Response and Calls for Change
Shein, a Chinese-founded company now valued at over 60 billion dollars, has faced criticism before. In response to the 2022 report, it promised better supplier checks, but the 2025 findings suggest gaps remain.
As of November 2025, Shein stated it would remove flagged items and review processes. However, critics argue voluntary steps fall short without stricter global rules.
Industry watchers point to rising consumer awareness. Sales of sustainable brands grew 15 percent in 2025, per market data, as shoppers seek safer options.
Greenpeace urges governments to enforce tougher regulations, especially on online imports. In Israel, officials are reviewing the report for potential local actions.
What This Means for Shoppers Worldwide
Consumers can protect themselves by choosing certified organic or low-chemical brands. Washing new clothes before wear reduces some risks, experts advise.
Look for labels like OEKO-TEX, which test for harmful substances. Avoiding ultra-cheap fast fashion helps cut demand for risky production.
With Black Friday sales peaking in late 2025, this news serves as a timely reminder. Shoppers in Israel and beyond are sharing stories online about returning Shein items.
The probe ties into global efforts against pollution. For example, the UN’s 2025 climate talks highlighted textile chemicals as a key issue.
If this story raises concerns for you, share it with friends or comment below on your experiences with fast fashion. Your input can help spread awareness and push for safer products.
