Essity stock gains 3.3% since last report as PFAS case persists

Essity stock gained 3.33% from the previous English report as the legal dispute over Carefree panty liners remained in focus. A California complaint alleges that the products contained PFOA, while Essity rejects intentional PFAS use.

What has changed since our last report

The stock traded at 25.82 euros on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at 10:03 CET in the previous report. It traded at 26.68 euros on Lang & Schwarz at 17:05 CET on Thursday, November 5, 2026. The move between those two Lang & Schwarz quotes was 3.33%.

The real-time quote of Essity stock shows the latest trading indication. This comparison with the previous report is separate from a daily Xetra comparison.

California complaint targets Carefree

According to a Yahoo News report republishing Manufacturing Dive coverage, hundreds of California residents sued Essity, Edgewell and Johnson & Johnson. The complaint was filed on October 9, 2026, in the Superior Court of Los Angeles County and also names Gelson's Markets.

The plaintiffs allege that one or more of five Carefree product layers contained PFOA, a chemical in the PFAS group. They accuse the companies of violating a California law that took effect on January 1, 2025, and seek compensation for alleged physical and emotional harm, medical expenses and related injuries. The allegations have not been established by a court.

Essity rejects intentional use

Essity spokesperson Amy Bellcourt said Carefree stands behind its products. She said the company does not intentionally add PFAS chemicals, that they are not ingredients used to make the products and that the ingredients are printed on the packaging. Essity plans to respond vigorously.

Essity acquired the North American feminine care business, including Carefree, from Edgewell on February 4, 2026. For investors, the lawsuit keeps product compliance, reputation and potential litigation costs in focus as the business is integrated.

The OMXS30 market overview provides the broader Swedish equity-market context for Essity investors.

Further legal developments, Essity's response and the court's handling of the claims are the next material issues. More news and analyses on Essity stock.