"Leather" and "leather" are only animal-derived, complying with new JIS standards
Definitions of "leather" and "leather" and changes to the JIS standard
The new JIS standard (JIS 6541:2024) enacted on March 21, 2024, defines the terms "leather" . As a result, the use of the terms "leather" to name artificial materials other than artificial leather, synthetic leather, and recycled leather fiber composites is no longer in compliance with the JIS standard.
Trends in Europe and SYRINX's response policy
Although the JIS standard is a voluntary industry standard and has no legal force, there is a growing movement in Europe and other regions to limit the use of the terms "leather" to natural leather derived from animals (European unified standard EN15987, international standard ISO15115).
In Italy these regulations have been codified into law and any violation will result in fines.
As a brand that deals with both leather and leather alternatives, we understand both viewpoints, while at the same time aiming to contribute to creating a transparent environment that avoids misunderstandings among consumers.
Specifically, in order to prevent misunderstandings and confusion among consumers, we will conform to the JIS standard and will no longer use terms such as "vegan leather" or "mushroom leather," but will instead use terms such as "leather alternative material" and "leather alternative material made from mushrooms," and will add explanatory notes as necessary.
Classification of leather and alternative materials in the JIS standard
Based on the JIS standard, leather and leather alternatives are classified as follows:
1. Leather
Animal skins that have been tanned to prevent decay.
2 Artificial leather/synthetic leather
A substitute for leather that uses synthetic resins such as polyurethane and polyvinyl chloride on the surface. This includes not only petroleum-based materials, but also those that have partly replaced with plant-based materials.
Examples include apple skin, cactus skin, and leather substitutes made from mushrooms containing synthetic resins.
3. Leather fiber regenerated composite (commonly known as recycled leather*)
A leather substitute material made from more than 50% crushed leather processed into sheets.
*The use of the term " recycled leather " does not comply with JIS regulations.
The importance of sustainable leather alternatives
Finally, we will explain "sustainable leather alternatives" that are not included in the above JIS standards. Synthetic resins have a significant impact on the environment, such as biodegradability, but leather alternatives that do not contain synthetic resins are not classified in the above JIS standards. Specific examples include KINOLI made in Japan, which is derived from mushrooms and mushroom mycelium, MuSkin made in Italy, and Amadou, a traditional Romanian material.
By proactively incorporating these sustainable materials, SYRINX aims to reduce the environmental impact and create sustainable products.
