A comprehensive review on enzymatic dehairing of animal skin using soybean enzymes: a novel approach for a cleaner leather processing operation

Abstract

The leather industry faces criticism for its environmentally harmful effluent generated by traditional processing methods exceeding the pollution load, and the major pollution load is analyzed in spent liquor of liming process. Conventional dehairing with sodium sulfide and lime could result in chemical oxygen demand (COD) exceeding 10,000 mg/L in wastewater. While some alternative techniques exist, they often have limitations. This review highlights the need for eco-friendly alternatives in the pollution-intensive dehairing and liming process. This review explores the promising potential of amylase and peroxidase enzymes derived from soybean hulls as a replacement for conventional dehairing chemicals. Studies have shown that soybean enzymes can effectively reduce COD in effluent by up to 70% compared with traditional methods. This innovative approach presents a more sustainable solution for leather processing, minimizing harmful effluent and its environmental impact. By embracing soybean enzymes, the leather industry could achieve sustainability without compromising product quality, potentially even reduce waste disposal costs, and create new opportunities for premium eco-friendly leather products.