DESCRIPTION: In 2020, 15% of animal hides produced in the United States were either burned or ended up in landfills, according to data from the Leather and Hide Council of America. A new report from AURI and USDA outlines research into new potential uses for these waste hides aimed at reducing the cost of removing them for small processors while delivering revenue and increasing market resilience. The report presents applications in six categories: pet chews, beef rinds, parchment, bone broth, casings for smoked meat products, compost, and renewable energy and biobased products. The solutions range from low-tech, low-investment to high-tech, high-investment.
Read a summary of the report: Summary of Sustainable Uses for Hides and Animal Byproducts
Download the report in full: Sustainable Uses for Hides and Animal Byproducts Report