About BY SCOUT
From our humble beginnings in 2012 in the U.S. to our current headquarters, nestled in England's lush green valleys, our journey has always been dedicated to high-quality craftsmanship and scouting...
Apple-Derived Leather Alternative
Apple-Derived leather alternative
From refined and soft grain-textured collars made for the "I’m a timeless classic style kind of pooch" to seriously smooth textured high-style leashes, for the "I'm too cool for something less - kind of hound".
What do our premium pieces have in common? They portray to be crafted from premium animal leather. Yet nothing could be further from the truth—while showcasing that same luxurious look, feel and durability as leather, these gems are actually made from a cruelty-free, water-resistant, premium alternative made from apple waste from Italy’s juice and jam industry.
How Apple Waste is Redefining Leather
We're are constantly searching for materials that reduce environmental impact without compromising on quality or aesthetics. Enter a groundbreaking solution: a plant-based material crafted from discarded apple skins and cores—an upcycled alternative to traditional leather that’s reshaping the industry.
From Orchard to collar, leash and dog carrier: How It's Made
This next-gen material begins its journey in the Italian food industry, where apple pomace—the skins, cores, and fibers left over from apple juice or applesauce production—is collected. This byproduct would typically be discarded, but instead, it's given a second life. The natural leftovers are dried and ground into a fine powder or paste (depending on the process), then blended with partially recycled PU as a binding agent to create a flexible, leather-like material.
By utilizing up to 25–30% natural materials in place of fossil-derived components, this material exemplifies eco-friendly innovation in modern production. The mixture is spread onto canvas cotton sheets, then heated and pressed to achieve the desired texture, thickness, and durability. It’s then dyed and embossed to create a rich, leather-like finish.
The result? A premium material that mimics the durability and luxury of traditional leather—while keeping its environmental footprint impressively low.
Why It’s a Game-Changer
Traditional leather production is resource-intensive, requiring vast amounts of water, land, and chemicals for tanning. On the flip side, synthetic vegan leathers are often petroleum-based, contributing to plastic waste and pollution. This apple-based material offers a smarter solution—it repurposes food waste, reduces reliance on fossil fuels, and eliminates the need for toxic tanning processes.
Beyond sustainability, it delivers on function and style. It’s lightweight, breathable, and versatile, making it perfect for out high-end dog accessories for everyday use. With a soft hand-feel and rich textures, it proves that eco-conscious materials don’t have to sacrifice luxury.
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