What to do with fish skin: throw away or eat?

At our company, we proudly support those who “turn it into products.”  One of these innovators is Ocean Leather.

They are one of the 13 companies that participated in a project with Kochi Prefecture.  Our relationship with their parent company, Koyo Freeze, actually began before this project kicked off.  Interestingly, the connection started at a trade show in Singapore, where both company presidents happened to share the same kanji in their names with different pronunciation, “Osamu” and “Akira”, which sparked the conversation!

In a recent feature on Kochi’s local TV, Ocean Leather was introduced, shedding light on why they chose to turn fish skin into products.  They also discussed their commitment to the environment, their passion for people, and how they are actively contributing to the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals).

With a wide range of colors and product types, their creations go beyond just finished goods – they also sell the leather on its own for others to create their own leather products.

It was eye-opening to lean that the manufacturing process for many leather products involves heavy metals.  In today’s world, where veganism and conscious consumption are on the rise, it’s important to reconsider the materials we use.

There’s a saying, “Every purchase is a vote,” and it reminds us to choose products that are thoughtfully made with care for both people and the environment.

I was also shocked to learn that about 40% of a fish is used for food, while 60% is discarded.  What’s fascinating is how Ocean Leather addresses this waste by utilizing by-products from their parent company, which specializes in food-grade fish products.  It’s not just a business decision – it’s a smart, sustainable practice that aligns with today’s SDGs movement.

But Ocean Leather doesn’t stop at repurposing fish skin!  They even find creative uses for fish scales, turning them into beautiful accessories and cushioning materials.

While you can buy their products online, they’ve also opened a new store in April 2024, where you can see the vibrant leather products firsthand.

New Store Address:
19-9 Kokadai, Kochi City, Kochi
781-0811