Fish is no longer viewed only as a source of food, as researchers at the College of Fisheries, Mangaluru, have demonstrated the economic potential of fish waste—particularly fish skin that is usually discarded. A special study by the college has successfully developed a method to produce high-quality leather from fish skin, opening new avenues for sustainable industry and income generation.
The research was led by B Manja Naik, Professor and Head of the Department of Fish Processing Technology, and involved a team of eight researchers who worked on the project for nearly five years. The study has received international recognition, with the research paper accepted for publication in the prestigious Springer Nature journal.
As part of the study, the researchers examined the skins of around 10 to 15 fish species. They found that the skins of Malabar grouper, cobia, catfish, melegu and cynic grouper were particularly suitable for leather production. These species have relatively thick and strong skin, making them ideal for conversion into durable leather and other value-added products. While the flesh of these large fish is widely consumed, the skin is often treated as waste—an issue the research seeks to address.
At present, the leather industry largely depends on animal hides such as those from cows, sheep, camels and crocodiles. Conventional leather processing involves toxic chemicals like chromium, poses risks to human health, causes environmental pollution and consumes large quantities of water. In contrast, the fish skin leather technology developed by the Mangaluru researchers significantly reduces the use of harmful chemicals and water, making it a more eco-friendly and sustainable alternative.
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Dakshina Kannada district, known for its strong fishing industry, generates substantial fish waste from processing units. By utilising fish skin waste, products such as key chains, purses, belts and other daily-use items can be manufactured. Researchers believe this initiative could give a boost to small and cottage industries, create new livelihood opportunities and reduce dependence on animal leather, while adding value to material that was earlier discarded.
Explaining the importance of the research, Naik said that nearly 35 to 40 per cent of a fish ends up as waste. “If processed properly, this waste can be converted into valuable products. Fish skin contains collagen, a protein that plays a crucial role in leather production. We have successfully processed fish skin at various stages and converted it into leather at a lower cost,” he said.
If implemented on a larger scale, the research could ensure that fish are valued not only for their meat but also for their skin, transforming waste into a profitable and sustainable resource.
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