April 13 (Reuters) - Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched an investigation into athleisure brand Lululemon (LULU.O), opens new tab ​over the potential presence of "forever chemicals" in its activewear, he ‌said on Monday in a post on social-media platform X.

The probe will examine whether Lululemon's athletic apparel contains PFAS, which the brand's health-conscious customers would not ​expect based on its marketing, Paxton said. PFAS, or per- ​and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of widely used materials ⁠called "forever chemicals" because they do not break down easily in nature.

"Lululemon ​does not use PFAS in its products," a company spokesperson said, ​adding it phased out the substance in fiscal 2023, after limited use in durable water repellent products.

● Attorney General Paxton said emerging research and consumer concerns have raised ​questions about whether certain synthetic materials in the apparel could be ​linked to endocrine disruption, infertility, cancer and other health risks.

● PFAS are associated with harmful ‌health ⁠effects in humans and animals, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

● The Office of the Attorney General will examine Lululemon's testing protocols, restricted substances list and supply chain practices against state safety standards.

● "If Lululemon has ​violated Texas law, ​it will ⁠be held accountable," Paxton said in his post.

● The company spokesperson said they are aware of the inquiry and ​are cooperating.

● Earlier this year, the company had to pull ​its "Get Low" ⁠workout collection from its website following user complaints, only resuming online sales after addressing the issues.

● Lululemon, which appointed a former chief of jeans maker ⁠Levi ​Strauss (LEVI.N), opens new tab to the board last month, has forecast ​weak annual results amid tepid demand and an ongoing proxy fight with its founder.