Fake Fashion, Real Danger: The Hidden Toxins in Counterfeit Clothing

Apr 20, 2026

What's really inside that bargain fashion buy? Or that cheap new World Cup soccer strip?

In this episode of Ecotextile Talks, host Philip Berman talks to Steve Lamar, President and CEO of the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA), to discuss the results of new lab tests on counterfeit products, with some quite disturbing findings. He's not just talking about fake logos, but chemicals at unsafe levels and online marketplaces that may know more than they're letting on. Steve also shares what the industry is doing to fight back, and whether it's enough.

This episode is brought to you by Andritz — global leaders in sustainable textile technology and textile recycling solutions. Learn more at andritz.com