European Stores Pull Popular Headphones Following Hormone-Disrupting Chemical Findings
Some retailers in Europe have halted the sale of specific headphones after a study funded by the EU revealed the presence of hormone-disrupting chemicals in these products. The research examined popular brands, including Apple, Beats, Samsung, Bose, JBL, and Sennheiser. While online retailers like Bol.com, Coolblue, and Mediamarkt did not disclose which models they removed, local news sources indicate that they are among those pulling the worst-performing headphones from their shelves.
The study analyzed 81 different headphone models, finding that all contained at least trace amounts of harmful substances such as bisphenols, phthalates, and flame retardants. These endocrine-disrupting chemicals are associated with reproductive health issues, neurobehavioral problems, and other health risks. Although the chemicals were detected in low concentrations, their widespread presence highlights how overlooked their use can be, raising concerns about the cumulative effects on vulnerable groups like children, teens, and pregnant individuals.
Karolína Brabcová, a campaign manager focused on toxic chemicals in consumer products, emphasized the need for a systematic approach to banning and phasing out the most harmful substances, which can have generational impacts. The report was produced as part of the ToxFree LIFE for All project, in collaboration with four other consumer advocacy organizations from the Czech Republic, Slovenia, Hungary, and Austria, with funding of approximately 2 million euros from the EU.
To conduct the study, researchers disassembled the headphones to collect 180 samples of hard and soft plastics from products aimed at adults, teens, and children. A laboratory analyzed these samples for hormone-disrupting chemicals across more than 50 brands. Each headphone model received three scores based on parts that touch the skin, parts that do not, and an overall product evaluation. Ratings were categorized as green for “lowest risk,” yellow for “legally compliant but exceeding stricter voluntary limits,” or red for “high concern.” Models deemed “non-compliant with legal limits or containing multiple hazardous substances” received a red rating. However, the report does not specify the exact quantities of each substance found, only the identified chemicals.
For instance, Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 and JBL’s Tune 720BT received green ratings across all categories. In contrast, JBL’s Wave Beam and JR310BT, designed for kids, received red scores for parts not touching the skin and overall evaluations. HP’s HyperX Cloud III gaming headset and Razer’s Kraken V3 also scored red in all categories.
Outreach to 11 major manufacturers included in the study yielded responses only from Bose, Sennheiser, and Marshall, all asserting that their products meet legal safety standards. They also questioned the study’s methodology, with Bose’s spokesperson noting uncertainty about the lab’s conclusions. Sennheiser expressed interest in obtaining specific data for their tested products to verify their findings, while Marshall pointed out that the study’s criteria were stricter than typical standards for electronic products.
Brabcová mentioned that several manufacturers contacted Arnika to inquire about the study’s methods. Although she did not disclose which companies reached out, she views their interest as a positive sign that they are considering product improvements.
The study’s intent was not to rank headphones or discourage consumers from buying specific models, as the chemicals were found in low levels. Brabcová reassured that there is no immediate danger from using these headphones, emphasizing the need to raise awareness about the various ways consumers are exposed to these chemicals daily and the cumulative risks involved. She noted that even small products like headphones can contain a mix of chemicals, and when multiplied by the hundreds of products used daily, the exposure can add up. Additionally, these headphones eventually become e-waste, potentially releasing chemicals into the environment when disposed of improperly.
Aimin Chen, a professor of epidemiology, highlighted the importance of minimizing exposure to harmful substances. Bisphenols, commonly used in plastics and thermal insulation, were found in 98 percent of the headphone samples. Phthalates, which make plastics more flexible and are used in personal care products, were present in about 60 percent of the samples, with some considered carcinogenic or reprotoxic.
Chen noted that the report does not quantify how much exposure a person might experience from wearing specific headphones, indicating that further research is needed to understand the potential health impacts. Concerns are particularly relevant for headphones, as users often wear them for extended periods, especially during workouts, where heat and moisture could accelerate the release of harmful substances.
Gaming headsets, in particular, received low ratings in the study, raising concerns for users who may wear them for long durations, as well as for sensitive groups like young people and pregnant individuals. Approximately 60 percent of gaming headphone samples received a “red” rating for their overall evaluation, compared to about 25 percent of samples from products designed for children. The better ratings for many children’s models suggest that it is possible to reduce risks with careful design.
The report’s authors are urging lawmakers to implement stricter regulations on harmful substances in consumer products, including banning certain chemicals and requiring transparency about the materials used in electronics. Brabcová believes that proactive manufacturers can lead the way in this effort, noting that over 40 percent of the tested headphones received an overall “green” score, indicating that brands can meet higher safety standards. She encourages consumers to choose brands that prioritize better policies.
