Ruthenium brand and other leather garments were detected free formaldehyde

Recently, the Shanghai Bureau of Quality and Technical Supervision issued a warning regarding potential quality and safety risks associated with leather garments. During inspections, free formaldehyde was found in products from brands such as Lilang, Jinlilai, ONLY, ESPRIT, Qipai, and George White.

According to the Shanghai Bureau of Quality Supervision, 50 batches of samples were tested, and 47 of them contained free formaldehyde, though none exceeded 300 mg/kg. Additionally, 6 batches had detectable levels of harmful aromatic amine dyes, all below 30 mg/kg. Eleven samples showed the presence of hexavalent chromium, with one batch exceeding 10 mg/kg. Since leather garments are typically not in direct contact with the skin, and considering the risk severity and likelihood of occurrence, experts classified the overall risk level as "low."

Leather clothing may contain excessive free formaldehyde, decomposable harmful aromatic amine dyes, and hexavalent chromium, which can remain from the production process. Prolonged wear might lead to absorption through the skin or inhalation via the respiratory system, potentially causing inflammation, allergic reactions, or even long-term health damage, including cancer.

The national mandatory standard GB20400-2006, "Limits of Harmful Substances in Leather and Fur," sets limits for free formaldehyde and decomposable harmful aromatic amine dyes. It specifies that formaldehyde content should be ≤ 300 mg/kg and harmful aromatic amine dyes ≤ 30 mg/kg. However, this standard applies only to raw leather and fur materials, not to finished products. Similarly, the industry-recommended standard QB/T 1615-2006, "Leather Garments," does not specify limits for hazardous substances. Another standard, QB/T 2880-2007, "Children's Leather Shoes," sets a limit of ≤10 mg/kg for hexavalent chromium in children’s shoes, but no such limit exists for leather garments.

This issue highlights the need for more comprehensive regulations and stricter monitoring to ensure consumer safety, especially given the potential long-term effects of exposure to these chemicals. As consumers become more aware of product safety, it is essential for manufacturers to adopt higher quality control measures and transparency in their production processes.

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