Imagine wearing shoes or carrying a bag made from tomatoes! Pritesh Mistry, 26, founder of The Bio Company, is making this a reality. His startup transforms tomato waste—skins, seeds, and pulp—into vegan, biodegradable Bioleather, offering a cruelty-free alternative to animal leather.

Why tomatoes? India produces 44 million tons of tomatoes annually, but 30-35% goes to waste. By using this surplus, Mistry tackles food waste and environmental pollution simultaneously. Tomatoes’ natural pectin and fibrous structure give the Bioleather its flexibility, strength, and leather-like texture.

Bioleather is PU- and PVC-free, carbon-neutral, and dyed with natural colors. From fashion accessories to footwear, early adopters love its unique origin, durability, and neutral scent. The Surat-based plant produces 5,000 meters per month, with plans to scale sustainably.

Mistry’s journey began as a college project, inspired by pollution at Kanpur tanneries and excessive food waste. After months of testing, he patented both the technology and process, ensuring his startup leads in plant-based leather innovation.

This September, The Bio Company is set to redefine sustainable fashion, proving eco-friendly choices can be stylish too.