In the latest investigation, a total of 144 products from Shein, AliExpress and Temu were inspected. According to the results, the three companies' displays were found to contain non-compliant goods.
There were particularly worrying findings regarding Shein products. Extremely high concentrations of phthalates were found in the company's shoes. In one case, these plastic-enhancing compounds exceeded the permissible limit by 229 times.
Speaking to AFP, an official from the Seoul Environmental Health Group confirmed that “plasticizers containing phthalates affect reproductive functions, such as lower sperm count, and can cause infertility and even premature birth.”
The level of formaldehyde in Shein's hats was twice the permissible value, while dioxane and methanol were found in the company's nail polish. Both compounds are potentially carcinogenic and harm the liver.
Timo did not emerge from the investigation unscathed either. In the soles of the company's sandals, lead was found to be 11 times the permissible limit.
Cover image is an illustration. Cover image source: Getty Images
