Silvia Romano Ancora una volta il web ci documenta l’orrore dietro la produzione dei prodotti Shein: una studentessa di Bristol ha aperto i suoi pacchi shein e ha trovato uno scorpione
@BBC/Phoebe-Hunt
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Unbelievable tale: a University of Bristol student actually lived a nightmare when she opened her package of ordered clothes from Shein, a fast fashion brand. In it, besides the clothes themselves, was a living scorpion.
“I thought it was a toy, then it moved.”
Sofia Alonso-Mossinger was horrified and terrified and told BBC News later that at first, she had thought the scorpion was a toy. But when the small animal began to move, her incredulity was replaced by panic. Sofia let out screams that immediately alerted her housemates: Phoebe Hunt, 18; and their friend Oliver James, who studied zoology at university. Oliver immediately took charge of the situation:. He carefully placed the scorpion, using a pair of kitchen tongs, into a secure container until an expert could arrive and collect the animal, seeing that the animal was safely taken away.
@BBC/Phoebe-Hunt
A worrying turn for fast fashion
Shein says they have initiated an investigation to determine how this could happen: a live scorpion in one of its packages. The incident has put into sharp focus the immense cause for concern, not just for the company but also for the entire fast fashion industry, which has faced lashings from critics for turning a blind eye to issues of sustainability and workers’ rights.
It also underlines the potential dangers of globalization of supply chains. From a piece of clothing to a package, passing through several countries, factories, and hands before finally reaching the customer carries with it the possibility of unexpected surprises.
A wake-up call for consumers?
This appalling episode serves as something more than a headline-an opportunity to reimagine buying choices. Yes, fast fashion can be affordable and in-style, but this, on the other hand, really makes us realize that we should not judge just from price and design; we should look further. The speed with which these products are manufactured, packed, and shipped out may introduce unforeseen risks, raising many questions about the quality and safety of supply chains.
Founded in 2008, Shein today leads the fast-fashion market with a 50% share in it. The brand often finds itself in the midst of controversies. Workers in its factories in China toil for 17-hour shifts and get only one day off per week; they earn as little as $0.04 per garment. While sustainability concerns are growing, SHEIN was highly criticized for its complete lack of environmental programmes; Good On You, a website that ranks fashion brands on ethical and sustainable grounds, gave it the worst rating.
Despite these criticisms, Shein’s app was the most downloaded in the United States in 2023-a testament to how many consumers still prefer its low prices. Events like the one described in that TikTok may push some to seek out more ethical alternatives.
