Pritesh Mistry, a 26-year-old biotech graduate, founded The Bio Company (TBC) to tackle two problems pollution from leather tanning and tomato food waste. India produces roughly 44 million tonnes of tomatoes annually, with 30–35% wasted. TBC converts tomato skins and seeds rich in pectin, natural oils, and fibrous structure into Bioleather, a durable, flexible, and fully biodegradable material.

Developed originally as a final-year college project, Bioleather’s method involves blending tomato by-products with biopolymers, plant-based binders, and natural fibers, followed by non-toxic curing and a final plant-based coating for water resistance completely free of PU and PVC. The technology and process are patented, adding to the company’s edge.

Since launching its flagship product, Original Bioleather, in 2019, TBC has ramped up production to around 5,000 meters per month from its Surat plant, with plans to scale even further while maintaining quality and eco-standards.

Bioleather has already been embraced by sustainable fashion labels, accessory brands, and even automotive interiors. Toronto-based Satuhati’s founder praised its unique origin “rejected tomatoes” and its standout PU/PVC-free, plant-based nature.

Mistry’s innovation offers a wearable solution rooted in sustainability, turning discarded tomato waste into a fashion-forward, eco-conscious material that could reshape how we think about leather without harming animals or the planet.