Turning Organic Waste Into Circular Fashion

As the global conversation around sustainability gains momentum, companies are finding innovative ways to reduce waste and support a circular economy.

A limited-edition Vida Bag, made from Piñatex® derived from pineapple leaf fibers, represents the collaboration between Dole Packaged Foods, Rais Case, and Ananas Anam to turn organic waste into circular fashion in celebration of Earth Day. | Photos: Rais Case

Dole Packaged Foods, LLC, a leader in growing and sourcing fruit, has partnered with Rais Case, a Southern California-based circular design brand, and Ananas Anam, the creator of Piñatex®, to transform organic waste into functional fashion.

This collaboration culminates in a limited-edition Vida Bag, announced for Earth Day, made from Piñatex® - a vegan leather alternative derived from pineapple leaf fibers sourced from Dole Philippines farms.

"For every ton of pineapples harvested, three tons of pineapple leaves are discarded, making it our job to find ways to reduce and repurpose our waste as much as we can," said Orzse Hodi, Senior Vice President and Managing Director for Dole Packaged Foods, Americas.

"In addition to using the discarded leaves as fertilizer, partners like Ananas Anam and Rais Case help us find beautiful solutions to reduce waste in a meaningful, unique way."

Dole's recent efforts have already achieved an impressive 83% reduction in organic waste in their global operations.

The Vida Bag is designed by Rais Case, a brand committed to circular design and responsible business practices. Known for their high-quality, timeless handbags, Rais Case emphasizes the importance of durable and repairable goods.

Julie Rais Ellis, Founder of Rais Case, explains, "Circular design is always top of mind for Rais Case. We are constantly trying to find ways to create durable, timeless, repairable goods that generate zero waste and support a circular economy."

The Vida Bag's striking gold color evokes sunshine, while its bright blue interior lining symbolizes the sky above Dole's pineapple farms in the Philippines.

Piñatex®, created by Ananas Anam, is at the heart of this collaboration. Made from natural pineapple leaf fibers, it is a strong, lightweight textile suitable for fashion accessories, furnishings, and more.

"These types of collaborations like ours with Dole and Rais Case are so important on this journey to improving our planet and the lives of people," said Dr. Carmen Hijosa, Founder and Chief Creative & Innovation Officer of Ananas Anam.

"Dole is a critical partner for us in sourcing fibers to begin the textile-making process. When companies come together, we can create beautiful change to help support people and our planet."

The limited-edition Vida Bag represents not just a stylish accessory, but a beacon of hope for the future of sustainable fashion. As we celebrate Earth Day, this collaboration stands as a testament to the power of innovative partnerships in creating a better world.