Apple is facing a class-action lawsuit accusing the company of exposing customers to potentially harmful “forever chemicals,” or PFAS, through its Apple Watch bands. The lawsuit, filed in California’s Northern District, alleges that certain Apple Watch bands, including the Sport Band, Ocean Band, and Nike Sport Band, contain high levels of PFAS, despite being marketed as durable and sweat-resistant.

What Are PFAS and Why Are They Harmful?

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are widely used chemicals valued for their water, oil, and heat resistance. Commonly found in non-stick cookware, fabrics, and food packaging, PFAS have earned the nickname “forever chemicals” because they break down very slowly and can persist in the environment for decades. More concerning, these chemicals are bioaccumulative, meaning they can build up in the human body over time.

Research links prolonged exposure to certain PFAS with serious health risks, including immune suppression, developmental delays, and an increased risk of cancers. The lawsuit highlights the concern that wearing PFAS-containing watch bands next to the skin may lead to prolonged chemical absorption.

Scientific Basis for the Lawsuit

The allegations against Apple draw on a study by scientists from the University of Notre Dame. The study analyzed 22 fitness tracker and smartwatch bands from various brands using advanced detection techniques. It found that bands made from fluoroelastomers—a material Apple uses—often contained elevated PFAS levels, specifically perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA).

According to the study, PFHxA concentrations in some bands exceeded 1,000 parts per billion, which researchers described as unusually high for consumer products. Fluoroelastomer bands, favored for their resistance to sweat and oils, were most likely to contain PFAS.

While the study does not explicitly name the Apple Watch bands cited in the lawsuit, it does reference Apple and Nike products, leading plaintiffs to include these specific bands in the complaint.

Apple’s Environmental Commitments Questioned

The lawsuit accuses Apple of failing to disclose the presence of PFAS in its products, despite committing in 2022 to phase out PFAS use. It argues that Apple’s marketing, which emphasizes health, wellness, and environmental sustainability, is misleading and violates California’s consumer protection laws.

The plaintiffs allege that Apple could have used safer manufacturing alternatives but chose not to, prioritizing cost and durability over consumer safety. They are seeking class-action certification, an injunction to stop the sale of the implicated bands, and monetary damages.

How to Avoid PFAS in Watch Bands

For concerned consumers, avoiding PFAS-containing watch bands involves careful material selection. According to experts:

• Avoid fluoroelastomer bands: These are often marketed as “FKM rubber” and typically cost more than $30. They are known to resist sweat and oils but are more likely to contain PFAS.
• Opt for alternative materials: Silicone, leather, nylon, and metal bands are generally PFAS-free.
• Check product descriptions: Bands explicitly labeled as silicone or fabric are safer choices.

The Notre Dame study also found that less expensive bands (under $15) were less likely to contain detectable levels of PFAS.

Broader Implications

The lawsuit against Apple underscores growing concerns about the prevalence of PFAS in consumer products. The Environmental Protection Agency and other regulatory bodies are still studying the long-term effects of low-level PFAS exposure, but heightened public awareness is prompting demands for stricter regulation and transparency.

Apple is not alone in facing scrutiny. Similar concerns have been raised about fitness trackers and smartwatches from other manufacturers. However, Apple’s market leadership and commitment to sustainability make it a focal point for addressing PFAS-related issues.

As legal and regulatory actions unfold, the tech industry may face increased pressure to eliminate harmful chemicals from wearable devices and provide clearer information to consumers. For now, buyers are encouraged to prioritize safer materials when selecting smartwatch accessories.