Is leather vegan? Considering that veganism, by definition, excludes all animal products and by-products, and leather is made from animal skin (typically cowhide, but also sheep, goat, pig, and even exotic animals like alligators and snakes), is it inherently non-vegan? Or are there specific circumstances, such as the use of “vegan leather” alternatives made from materials like pineapple leaves (Piñatex), mushroom leather (Mylo), or recycled plastics, that could qualify a product as leather and still be considered vegan? Furthermore, does the source of the animal hide matter? For example, would leather derived from animals that died of natural causes, rather than being raised and slaughtered for meat or hide, affect its vegan status? What about the tanning process, does that impact the ethical considerations, regardless of the source hide?
Answer
No, leather is not vegan. Leather is made from the skin of animals, typically cows, but also sheep, goats, pigs, and other animals. Veganism, by definition, excludes the use of any animal products.