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MALAI

WHAT IS MALAI?

Malai is a biocomposite material made from entirely organic and sustainable bacterial cellulose grown on agricultural waste sourced from the coconut industry in Southern India.


Free from synthetic materials, plastics and harsh chemicals, Malai is a flexible, water resistant and durable vegan material with a feel comparable to leather or thick paper.

HOW IS MALAI MADE?

Local farmers and processing units collect coconut water waste (which would otherwise be dumped, causing damage to the soil) which is then used to feed the bacteria’s cellulose production. A sheet of cellulose jelly forms in about 2 weeks from the fermentation. It is then processed, refined and blended with other natural fibres from bananas, hemp or agave leaves to create durability and texture. No petroleum-based polymers or no harsh chemicals are used in the process.


One coconut-processing unit can collect 4000 litres of coconut water waste per day which can be used to make 320 sq meters of Malai.

WHY IS MALAI SUSTAINABLE?

A product made from Malai will last many years if properly cared for, however should you wish to have a clear-out, it can simply be placed in with your compostable rubbish and it will naturally break down.


The word ‘Malai’ refers directly to the creamy flesh of the coconut and it is the coconut water (a by-product from the harvesting of this flesh) that sustains the bacteria whilst they are producing the cellulose, which is then in turn collected and refined until it becomes the finished material: Malai.  

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