As holiday shoppers flock to stores and online retailers, a sobering report reveals that many beloved brands are failing to protect consumers from dangerous chemicals. The annual *Retailer Report Card* by Toxic-Free Future, a consumer safety nonprofit, grades 50 of the largest retailers in the U.S. and Canada on their commitment to removing hazardous materials from their products. The results? Alarming.

A staggering 17 companies, including big names like McDonald’s, Macy’s, and Trader Joe’s, flunked outright, earning a spot in the so-called “Toxic Hall of Shame.” While a few companies—like Walmart and Target—shone as industry leaders, the overall average score was a dismal D+.

The Troubling Truth About Toxins

Hazardous substances, such as PFAS—nicknamed “forever chemicals” because they persist in the environment—and PVC plastics, are linked to severe health risks, including cancer, hormonal disorders, and liver damage. These chemicals are commonly found in food packaging, plastic products, and even household goods.

Cheri Peele, senior project manager for Toxic-Free Future, expressed outrage at retailers’ inaction:
> “With PFAS in our drinking water and toxic substances in everyday products, it’s shocking how little retailers are doing to address this health crisis.”

Yet, despite mounting evidence of harm, major corporations continue to prioritize cost-saving measures over consumer safety.

Who’s Failing Consumers?

The report puts a harsh spotlight on several household names. Among the 17 failing brands are:
– Chipotle and Subway, which many view as healthier fast-food options.
– Trader Joe’s, a darling of the organic food movement.
– McDonald’s, whose packaging remains a common source of PFAS exposure.
– Macy’s and Nordstrom, exposing customers to harmful chemicals in household goods.

Other offenders include Inspire Brands (parent company of Arby’s, Dunkin’, and Sonic) and Yum! Brands (owners of Taco Bell, KFC, and Pizza Hut). Dollar stores like Five Below also landed squarely at the bottom, raising concerns about the chemicals in low-cost items targeting economically vulnerable families.

The Bright Spots

On the flip side, a handful of companies demonstrated that progress is possible.
– Apple, Sephora, Target, and Walmart earned top marks for their proactive policies.
– Ulta nearly doubled its score since 2021, showing a commendable effort to phase out harmful chemicals.

Meanwhile, Amazon earned a middling C, signaling room for improvement but highlighting some steps toward transparency.

Lack of Accountability

Perhaps the most disturbing revelation is the widespread lack of transparency. Toxic-Free Future found that over half the retailers don’t even request ingredient disclosures from their suppliers. Without this basic accountability, consumers are left in the dark about the safety of everyday products.

Caroline Boden of Mercy Investment Services warned:
“This lack of transparency puts consumers, businesses, and shareholders at risk.”

This report underscores the pitfalls of corporate overreach and the failure of bloated regulatory systems. Instead of relying on government mandates, consumers should demand accountability directly from retailers. Market pressure—not bureaucratic red tape—is the most effective way to drive change.

Furthermore, this issue exposes the double standard in so-called “progressive” companies like Trader Joe’s, which champion sustainability while quietly cutting corners when it comes to safety.

What You Can Do

As you shop this holiday season, vote with your wallet. Support retailers that prioritize your family’s health and safety. Avoid brands that earned failing grades and reward companies making real progress, like Target and Walmart.

More importantly, hold these corporations accountable. Call out their toxic practices on social media, demand transparency, and support initiatives that encourage safer alternatives.

The battle against hazardous chemicals isn’t just about policy; it’s about protecting the health of American families. It’s time to demand better.