Every year, tons of tomatoes end up in landfills — wasted and forgotten. But what if those discarded peels and seeds could replace animal leather? That’s exactly what Pritesh Mistry, the founder of The Bio Company (TBC), is doing. His revolutionary idea transforms tomato waste into biodegradable leather, giving sustainability a bold new twist.
The Problem with Traditional Leather
Conventional leather production is one of the world’s dirtiest industries. It depends on animal skins, toxic tanning chemicals, and excessive water usage — all of which contribute to pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
Even synthetic leather (made from plastic like PVC or PU) adds to the mess, releasing microplastics and taking centuries to decompose.
Mistry wanted a cleaner, smarter alternative — one that didn’t harm animals or the planet.
The Birth of Vegan Tomato Leather
While researching waste management and biomaterials, Mistry discovered that tomato peels and seeds contain natural polymers and fibres perfect for creating flexible, durable sheets. In 2019, his company launched Original Bioleather, a completely vegan and biodegradable leather made from tomato waste.
How it works:
- Tomato waste is collected from farms and food factories.
- The material is blended with biopolymers and plant-based binders.
- A non-toxic curing process turns it into strong, leather-like sheets.
- A natural protective coating adds durability and water resistance — with zero plastic involved.
The result looks and feels just like genuine leather — but it’s cruelty-free and planet-friendly.
Why It’s a Game Changer
- Eco-Friendly Innovation: The process reduces agricultural waste and pollution. Each meter of tomato leather saves several kilograms of tomato waste from rotting and emitting methane.
- Cruelty-Free and Vegan: No animal hides, no harsh chemicals, no guilt. It’s a perfect fit for the fast-growing vegan fashion movement.
- Biodegradable and Plastic-Free: Unlike PU or PVC leather, tomato leather decomposes naturally, leaving no harmful residues.
- Made in India, for the World: The Bio Company, based in Surat, currently produces around 5,000 meters of bio-leather per month, partnering with international fashion and automotive brands.
Company Performance and Growth
Behind this innovation is a growing business success story.
- Revenue: The Bio Company reportedly generated around ₹74 crore in revenue in FY 2023–24, showing how sustainability and profitability can coexist together.
- Growth: TBC has seen over 50% year-on-year growth and aims to reach ₹225 crore in revenue by FY 2025–26.
- Team and Production: With a team of 130+ employees, TBC’s Surat facility continues to expand, manufacturing several thousand meters of bio-leather monthly.
These numbers prove that sustainability isn’t just good for the planet — it can be great business too.
Applications in Fashion and Beyond
Designers across the globe are now experimenting with tomato leather to create handbags, shoes, car interiors, and accessories.
Its soft texture, natural shine, and durability make it a realistic and luxurious alternative to animal leather — minus the chemical smell and plastic feel of synthetic versions.
Even top fashion houses are exploring collaborations with The Bio Company to meet their sustainability goals and attract eco-conscious customers.
The Bigger Picture
Pritesh Mistry’s work proves that innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand. By turning agricultural waste into a valuable resource, he’s setting a new benchmark for circular economy design.
His journey also highlights how Indian startups can lead the global shift toward ethical, eco-friendly industries through creativity, science, and social responsibility.
Conclusion
Tomato leather isn’t just a clever invention — it’s a vision for a cleaner, smarter future. It tackles three major issues at once: food waste, animal cruelty, and industrial pollution.
As sustainable materials gain traction worldwide, projects like The Bio Company’s tomato leather could completely transform the fashion industry.
From waste bins to wardrobes, this innovation shows that meaningful change can start with something as simple as a tomato.
About Marketing Mirrors
At Marketing Mirrors is a digital platform that celebrates innovation, sustainability, and entrepreneurship. We highlight stories of changemakers like Pritesh Mistry who are redefining industries through creativity and conscience. Stay connected with Marketing Mirrors for more inspiring stories, startup insights, and sustainability-driven success journeys.
