Health risk from Shein and Temu: Toxic chemicals simplifies!

Health risk from Shein and Temu: Toxic chemicals simplifies!

In Austria, an alarming trend in online trading can be observed. Asian online platforms such as Temu and Shein are launching questionable products that contain harmful chemicals. An investigation by Greenpeace has shown that these substances are sometimes far above the legal limit values, in particular PFAs, which are known as eternal drives. In a tested shoe from Shein, plasticizers in 229 times the limit were detected, which leads to serious concerns about the security of consumers.

The aggressive marketing strategy of these platforms, paired with low prices, has meant that Temu and Shein are among the most sales online shops in Austria. According to Nielseniq, 25% of Austrians bought from Temu and 16% from Shein in 2023. Rainer Will, Managing Director of the Commercial Association, criticizes the Far East providers sharply and describes them as an enricher who benefits from the poor execution of European legal provisions.

Health risks through dangerous chemicals

The results of the examinations are terrifying. An analysis of party articles showed that fairy lights from Temu Phthalat soft maker in 70 times and short-chain chlorine paraffins in 150 times the limit values. These chemicals can cause hormonal disorders and other serious health problems. Greenpeace business expert Ursula Bittner condemns the business model of Shein and Temu as a potential security risk and exercises sharp criticism of the unfair business practice of these companies.

In addition to the health risks, increased leaders and carcinogenic formaldehyde were found in Temu products, as South Korean health authorities report. The widespread exploitation of the duty -free limit of 150 euros also contributes to the problem because it gives Austrian trade in sales of 4.5 billion euros.

claims from Greenpeace and trade association

To meet these challenges, Greenpeace and the trade association have worked out a 4-point plan that includes:

• reduction of the duty -free limit from 150 euros to 0 euros,
• More resources for customs authorities with strict import controls,
• Introduction of a package tax on B2C programs of third countries platforms,
• Temporary lock with repeated broken law.

The discussion about the risks and opportunities in online trading is re -lived up by these incidents. Some experts see great potential in digitization and online sales, but warn of the dangers that can assume unregulated providers. A balanced ratio between fair competition and consumer protection is essential to protect the public from health risks and at the same time avoid distortions of competition in goods traffic.

The current developments must be taken seriously by the retailers and consumers. In view of the substantial loss of sales in domestic trade and the dangers to public health, reforms are urgently necessary.

For more information on the opportunities and risks in online trading, the detailed analysis can be read in an article on Computer Week.

Computer Week reports on the opportunities and risks in online trade.