Assam’s famed Eri Silk achieves prestigious Oeko-Tex certification

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaAugust 19, 2024

Known as the world’s only vegan silk, Assam’s Eri Silk, got Oeko-Tex Certification.

In a post on X, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said: “A proud moment for Assam as our fine Eri Silk receives the prestigious Oeko-Tex certification for its safe characteristics. The Oeko-Tex certification Standard 100 is a label for textiles tested for harmful substances and sets a benchmark for textile safety, from yarn to finished product.”

Union Minister of Communications and Development of North Eastern Region Jyotiraditya Scindia said on X: “A moment of celebration for North East India’s textile industry! Eri Silk, the pride of Assam has secured the prestigious Oeko-Tex certification. This GI-tagged, vegan silk is now set to shine globally and contribute to sustainable fashion.”

The Oeko-Tex certification, a rigorous standard that ensures textiles are tested for harmful substances and produced in environment-friendly conditions, is a significant endorsement for Eri Silk. This achievement further cements the silk’s status as a Geographical Indication (GI) product of Assam, highlighting its authenticity and regional importance.

Eri silk holds a special place in the cultural heritage of Meghalaya and Umden in Ri-Bhoi district is called the Eri Silk Village of Northeast India.

Headquartered in Zurich in Switzerland, The International Association for Research and Testing in the Field of Textile and Leather Ecology (Oeko-Tex) consists of independent textile and leather testing institutes in Europe and Japan, with offices in more than 70 countries. It is a label for textiles tested for harmful substances. It sets the benchmark for textile safety, from yarn to finished product.

Every item bearing the Oeko-Tex is certified as having passed safety tests for the presence of harmful substances.

“The North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation (NEHHDC) under the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) has obtained the prestigious Oeko-Tex certification for its Eri Silk, directly from Germany on the Nation’s 78th Independence Day. “This remarkable accomplishment not only elevates the region’s traditional craftsmanship but also positions Eri Silk as a globally recognized, sustainable textile” officials said.

Eri Silk is renowned as the world’s only vegan silk, where, unlike other silks, the moth inside the cocoon is not killed. Instead, the moth naturally exits the cocoon, leaving it behind for us to use. This ethical and eco-friendly process sets Eri Silk apart, making it a symbol of compassion and sustainability in the textile industry.

“This certification marks a pivotal step in bringing Eri Silk closer to penetrating the global export market, expanding its reach, and establishing a strong international presence. The recognition underscores NEHHDC’s commitment to promoting and preserving the rich cultural heritage of Assam while embracing sustainable practices” they said.

This milestone opens new doors for Eri Silk, positioning it as a leading eco-friendly fabric in the international market, and showcasing the region’s potential in contributing to the global textile industry” an official statement said. A moment of celebration for North East India’s textile industry! Eri Silk, the pride of Assam has secured the prestigious Oeko-Tex certification. This GI-tagged, vegan silk is now set to shine globally and contribute to sustainable fashion.