Limiting Microbial Activity as an Alternative Approach of Bovine Hide Preservation Part II Impact of Developed Formulations on Leather Quality and the Environment

Abstract

Wet salting of bovine hide commonly utilizes 95% saturated salt solution or 40-50% salt (w/w) on raw hide weight for preservation. The salt used for the hide preservation ends up being in wastewater and generates enormous environmental pollution. To minimize the environmental pollution problem associated with the traditional method of hide preservation, alternative formulations containing antimicrobial agents and less amount of common salt (35% saturated brine) have been developed. The alternative formulations were found to be more effective in deterring microbial growth than the traditional formulation as demonstrated by the total aerobic bacterial count of the preserved hide soaking liquor. The effect of the newly developed formulations on leather quality was assessed by analyzing the mechanical properties, scanning electron microscopic images, grain pattern and organoleptic properties of the finished leather. The quality analysis of the crust leather revealed that, the leather panels produced from the traditionally and alternatively preserved hides were comparable. The environmental impact of the newly developed formulations was also evaluated by monitoring the leather processing effluents for the pollution indicators such as total solids (TS), total dissolved solids (TDS), chloride content, Chemical oxygen demand (COD) and Bio-Chemical oxygen demand (BOD). Overall, the environmental impact of the newly developed hide preserving formulation was less severe than the traditionally used formulation. Since the newly developed formulations did not affect the quality of the leather produced and their impact on the environments is minimum, they could be considered as viable options for combatting pollution problems associated with the traditional salt curing method.