Seoul’s authorities have raised alarms over the presence of toxic substances in products from popular online retailers like Shein and Temu. A recent inspection revealed that various women’s accessories from these brands contained harmful chemicals at levels significantly above legal limits. For instance, sandals from Temu were found to contain lead in their insoles, exceeding permissible levels by over eleven times.
In another glaring example, Shein’s products were tested, uncovering high concentrations of phthalates—chemicals often used to enhance the flexibility of plastics. One pair of shoes registered a staggering 229 times more phthalates than the legal limit. Phthalates pose serious health risks, including reproductive issues and potentially increasing infertility rates. Furthermore, formaldehyde, noted for its use in construction materials, was detected in Shein’s caps at double the allowable threshold.
This scrutiny comes amidst the brands’ rapid growth in global markets, particularly in the United States, where both companies have made considerable inroads against established competitors like Amazon. In response to ongoing concerns, Seoul officials have initiated weekly inspections of online products sold within their jurisdiction. They have emphasized the importance of removing items that do not adhere to safety regulations, as these products pose a direct threat to consumers.
As international scrutiny intensifies, Shein has committed to working with third-party testing agencies to ensure compliance with safety standards, asserting their suppliers must also adhere to relevant guidelines. Moving forward, the Seoul Metropolitan Government plans to maintain safety testing and disclose findings to the public, further emphasizing consumer safety in retail practices.
In summary, as e-commerce continues to flourish, it becomes imperative for online retailers to uphold strict safety and quality measures. The findings from Seoul serve as a crucial reminder for consumers and companies alike to prioritize health and safety in all products.