Fibe

Fibe is a UK-based startup that develops a textile fiber derived from potato waste. Named “Patacel,” the material is intended to replace conventional textile fibers such as cotton. Fibe's patent-pending process involves extracting fibers from inedible potato waste through a series of biological and mechanical steps, without the use of harsh chemicals. Fibe's technology is claimed to seamlessly integrate with existing textile weaving machinery.

Patacel fibers are reported to exhibit desirable characteristics akin to eco-friendly “bast” fibers like hemp, flax, and jute, such as strength, durability, and dyeability. However, Patacel is also claimed to possess an advantage with its significantly small fiber diameter, resulting in enhanced softness than its counterparts. Additionally, the presence of the natural compound solanine provides Patacel with antimicrobial properties.

Fibe claims Patacel production eliminates the need for additional land for raw material cultivation as it repurposes a significant waste stream. Production also reportedly requires 99.7% less water while emitting 82.4% fewer pollutants compared to cotton cultivation. The company claims Patacel has the potential to meet 70% of the global demand for non-synthetic clothing.