British startup Fibe has developed a textile made from potato thread from waste potato stems. This fibre, known as “potato thread”, represents a sustainable alternative to cotton and could significantly reduce dependence on water resources and agricultural land.
How is textile made from potato thread?
Potato is a popular crop globally, but the plant’s stems and leaves are often thrown away because they contain solanine, a toxic substance. Fibe has solved this problem by transforming these agricultural by-products into textile fibres. This makes use of a resource that previously had no commercial value and reduces the environmental impact compared to cotton cultivation.
The company produces textile fibres from potatoes. Source: Fibe
Cotton, widely used in the textile sector , is a water- and land-intensive crop, representing 2.5% of the world’s agricultural land. A single cotton T-shirt requires more than 2,700 liters of water, while Fibe’s yarn consumes 99.7% less water . In addition, this new material emits 82% less CO₂, making it a much greener alternative.
Fibe employs a unique biological method that breaks down potato stems using natural enzymes, releasing fibres that are then refined for integration into the textile industry . This process dispenses with harsh chemicals, making it cost-effective and adaptable for integration into existing cotton production systems.
Fibe will reach commercial production
Although Fibe’s technology shows great potential, the company still faces the challenge of reducing costs to bring this production to industrial scale. By 2026, Fibe plans to establish a pilot plant that will allow this material to be implemented commercially . The company is already in talks with textile brands and has secured agreements for the sustainable development of its supply chain, thus ensuring that each fiber can be traced back to its agricultural origin.
This innovation marks an important step towards sustainable fashion, which has historically relied on materials such as cotton and polyester. Fibe, with its “ potato yarn ,” promotes the circular economy by harnessing agricultural waste , giving farmers the opportunity to monetize waste . With its focus on traceability and commitment to minimal environmental impact, Fibe looks set to lead the next generation of eco-friendly textile fibers.
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Source and photos: Fibe