Animal Genetics Impact on Leather to feature at the Six Nations Livestock Expo
Animal genetics dictate the ultimate quality and commercial value of leather long before a hide reaches the tannery floor according to Dr. James Kihara PhD Researcher in Leather Engineering.
The Livestock Site Team paid a courtesy visit at Dr. Sambasiva Rao, Managing Director Alpharama Leather Tannary in Athi River who shall speak at the 2nd Annual Six Nations Genetics & Equipment Tech Expo in Sepetmber 11-12.
Dr. Rao says the Genetic Link to Leather Quality includes the following:
Skin Structure Breed genetics control skin thickness, smoothness, and the density of collagen fibers.
Defect Resistance Stronger genetic traits lower susceptibility to parasites and skin diseases that scar hides.
Surface Area Superior meat and dairy-plus-hide dual-purpose breeds yield larger, more uniform surface areas.
Higher Pricing Premium, scar-free raw materials command top prices per kilogram compared to damaged indigenous or poorly bred stock.
Value Addition High-density leather allows Alpharama tannary to process luxury-grade materials for global fashion houses, multiplying local income.
Reduced Waste Flawless genetics reduce rejection rates during processing, cutting losses for both producers and manufacturers.
