The company claims that Apple Watch bands are safe for users, despite concerns regarding the presence of PFAS (polyfluoroalkyl substances) in various smartwatch bands.
PFAS has been associated with multiple health issues and is referred to as a “forever chemical” due to its inability to decompose in either the human body or the environment …
Research from the University of Notre Dame on PFAS
A study conducted by the University of Notre Dame revealed the existence of PFAS in nine distinct brands of smartwatches and fitness trackers. While the specific brands that tested positive are not disclosed, it was indicated that Apple bands were among them.
The findings indicated that out of the 22 bands evaluated, nine exhibited elevated levels of a type of PFAS known as perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA). Higher concentrations of PFHxA were predominantly found in more expensive watchbands, specifically those priced over $15 …
The chemicals are known to transfer from treated materials to skin, dust, and air, creating various exposure routes through inhalation, ingestion, and skin absorption. Peaslee and his team expressed significant concerns regarding such permeation in wearable consumer products …
These “forever chemicals” have been linked to various health issues, including immune system suppression, hormonal disturbances, developmental delays in children, low birth weight, early puberty, high blood pressure during pregnancy, and an elevated risk of certain cancers such as kidney and testicular cancer.
A primary concern brought forth by the researchers is that PFAS may penetrate the skin, although more studies are required to ascertain the extent of this absorption.
Class Action Lawsuit Against Three Apple Watch Bands
The Register has reported that Apple faces a lawsuit regarding PFAS concerning three specific Apple Watch bands.
The lawsuit, filed recently in California’s Northern District, explicitly targets three Apple Watch bands: the Sports Band included with the entry-level Apple Watches, the Ocean Band, and the Nike Sport Band associated with Nike-branded Apple Watches. Apple asserts that all three bands are constructed from fluoroelastomers, which the lawsuit claims conceals the presence of PFAS.
Apple Declares Bands Safe While Committing to Phase Out PFAS
Apple has acknowledged the presence of PFAS in several of its products, particularly in fluoropolymers, but asserts that its bands are safe.
Apple Watch bands are safe for consumers. In addition to our in-house testing, we collaborate with independent laboratories to conduct thorough testing and analysis of the materials utilized in our products, including Apple Watch bands.
Nevertheless, Newsweek reports the company’s intention to gradually eliminate PFAS from its products.
Furthermore, Apple has committed to fully “phase out” the utilization of PFAS in its products. In a statement from November 2022, the company noted, “We initiated a review of the PFAS class with the highest usage in our products—the fluoropolymers.”
The company clarifies that this move is not a result of safety fears.
Although our analysis determined these materials are safe during usage, we deemed it important to expand our focus to encompass manufacturing across the supply chain. We concluded that our objective should be to limit the usage of all PFAS compounds. The complete removal of PFAS from Apple products and manufacturing processes will necessitate time.
Apple describes PFAS as “harmful,” though this notion may pertain more to the environmental ramifications of a substance that cannot be adequately disposed of.
We must ensure that alternatives to PFAS do not lead to regrettable substitutions, where substitutes may be as harmful as, or even more toxic than, the PFAS being replaced.
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