THE LEATHER INDUSTRY IS CHANGING
Across the world, the leather industry is moving toward sustainability. Governments are aintroducing stricter environmental regulations, and consumers are asking for ecofriendly products. Tanneries that once relied on chrome salts and synthetic agents are shifting to safer, natural alternatives.
The solution is clear: vegetable tannins. They are renewable, biodegradable, and safe — while still delivering excellent performance in leather making.
WHAT ARE VEGETABLE TANNINS?
Vegetable tannins are naturally occurring polyphenolic compounds found in plants. For centuries, they have been used to stabilize hides and skins, transforming them into durable, beautiful leather.
CLASSIFICATIONS OF VEGETABLE TANNINS ?
Condensed Tannins (Proanthocyanidins):
- Commonly sourced from bark (mimosa, quebracho, chestnut).
- Provide firmness, body, and durability.
- Typically give warm brown to reddish shades.
Hydrolysable Tannins (Gallotannins & Ellagitannins):
- Derived from fruits, pods, and nuts (myrobalan, tara, valonia).
- Contribute softness, lightfastness, and color brightness.
- Often impart lighter or yellowish tones
HOW VEGETABLE TANNINS WORK
- Tannins bond with collagen fibers in hides and skins.
- This stabilizes the material against decomposition, heat, moisture, and microbes.
- The result: leather that is breathable, strong, and naturally ages with character
WHY LEATHER MADE WITH VEGETABLE TANNINS STANDS OUT
Leather tanned with vegetable extracts has qualities that make it stand apart from chrome or synthetic tanning:
- Strong and long-lasting.
- Natural shades from pale beige to deep brown.
- Firm full and smooth grain.
- Comfortable and breathable for daily use.
- Holds dyes and embossing with sharp detail.
- Ages gracefully with a unique patina.
BETTER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT
Chrome tanning produces hazardous waste and synthetic
agents often leave behind harmful residues. Vegetable
tanning is completely different:
- 100% biodegradable and safe.
- Made from renewable plant-based sources.
- Requires less water and energy during processing.
- Supports a circular economy by using renewable
plant sources and promoting eco-friendly chemistry.
OUR EXTRACTS AT A GLANCE
Our tannins combine nature, science and responsibility. Every extract we produce is:
- Natural spray dried vegetable extract
- High in tannin content for superior performance
- Free from pentachlorophenol and harmful chemicals
- Completely soluble in water
- Spray-dried and dedusted for easy use
- Rapid in penetration for faster tanning
- Provides excellent filling for firm tight grain
- Low in salt and ash for cleaner processing
A SMARTER CHOICE FOR THE FUTURE
Vegetable tannins are not just natural alternatives to chemicals. They represent the future of sustainable leather tanning. By choosing Mimosa or Myrobalane xtracts you get leather that meets the highest performance standards while supporting a healthier planet.