Can leather be made without harming animals? Pritesh Mistry’s The Bio Company (TBC) is answering this question by transforming tomato waste into bioleather, a vegan and biodegradable alternative. The innovation has already won recognition, including the Best Innovation in Textile award at the PETA Vegan Fashion Awards 2021.
Why Tomatoes?
India produces nearly 44 million tons of tomatoes annually, yet 30–35% of this harvest goes to waste. The skins and seeds, rich in pectin, provide natural polymers that give flexibility, strength, and a leather-like texture. By repurposing tomato waste, TBC addresses both environmental pollution and food waste while creating a sustainable raw material.
From College Project to Patented Technology
Mistry, a biotechnology graduate from Thadomal Shahani Engineering College in Mumbai, started developing bioleather during his final year. Visits to polluted tanneries and local farms inspired him to find a solution that combined sustainability with practicality. After months of experimentation with tomato by-products, TBC created a leather alternative that is fully biodegradable and plant-based. The company now holds patents for both its technology and process, safeguarding its innovation in the eco-leather sector.
How Bioleather Is Made
The process begins with sourcing tomato waste from farms and food processing units in regions like Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh. Tomato skins and seeds are combined with biopolymers, plant-based binders, and natural fibers. The mixture undergoes non-toxic curing and a plant-based coating is applied to enhance durability and water resistance. The result is a PU- and PVC-free leather alternative with minimal environmental impact.
Fashion and Automotive Applications
Bioleather has quickly found adopters in fashion, accessories, and even automotive interiors. Sustainable brands use it for jackets, bags, and footwear, while some automotive companies explore it for upholstery. The material has a neutral scent, unlike chemical or plastic-based synthetic leathers, making it pleasant for consumers.
Scalable and Sustainable Production
TBC currently produces around 5,000 meters of bioleather per month at its Surat plant, with plans to expand production as demand rises. The company emphasizes maintaining quality and sustainability while scaling output.
A Step Toward Sustainable Fashion
By transforming tomato waste into stylish, eco-friendly leather, The Bio Company offers a practical alternative to animal leather. It demonstrates that innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand, helping industries reduce their environmental footprint while meeting consumer demand for ethical products.
