Many everyday products—from shampoo and fast food packaging to outdoor gear—have been found to contain harmful chemicals. While some companies are working toward safer alternatives, others have come under fire for continuing to use substances that may harm our health or the environment.
Those who are currently under scrutiny aswell as those that historically have been exposed can all teach us a lesson when it comes to finding other brands that use chemicals in their products. Therefore, the chemeleon has made a list of some big and diverse businesses that we can learn from in further investigation.
Here are five major companies that have faced criticism or legal action for hazardous chemicals in their products:
1. Johnson & Johnson
J&J has been in the spotlight for years due to its talc-based baby powder, which has been linked to asbestos contamination. Thousands of lawsuits have alleged that long-term use of the product led to cancer. The company has denied wrongdoing but announced it would discontinue the talc-based formula globally by 2023.
2. McDonald’s
Fast food packaging has been found to contain PFAS (so-called “forever chemicals”)—which resist grease and water but can build up in the body over time. McDonald’s was one of several chains found to have PFAS in their wrappers and packaging. They’ve pledged to phase out PFAS in their packaging by 2025.
3. The North Face (VF Corporation)
Outdoor brands like The North Face have used PFAS in waterproof clothing and gear. While these chemicals offer performance benefits, they can persist in the environment and the human body. VF Corporation has stated intentions to eliminate PFAS from its supply chain, but consumers and advocacy groups continue to call for faster action.
4. Colgate-Palmolive
Colgate-Palmolive, known for its personal care and cleaning products, has been called out for using ingredients like triclosan and sodium lauryl sulfate in products like toothpaste and soap. Some of these ingredients have been linked to hormone disruption and skin irritation. While the company has removed triclosan from some products, watchdog groups continue to push for more transparency and safer formulations.
5. 3M
3M was one of the original manufacturers of PFAS chemicals used in non-stick coatings, firefighting foams, and many industrial applications. The company has faced massive lawsuits and is phasing out production of certain PFAS, but the legacy of contamination remains in water supplies around the world.
Why It Matters
Understanding which companies use hazardous chemicals helps us make more informed choices. It also puts pressure on these corporations to shift toward safer, healthier alternatives. When we shop with awareness, we vote with our wallets.
Always read labels, do a little digging, and don’t be afraid to ask brands tough questions. Change starts with awareness.