# Bacteria-Stitched Lab-Grown Shoes
Modern Synthesis Uses Plant Waste to Grow Microbial Textiles

By Amy Duong | Published 2023-04-10 | Eco
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/modern-synthesis-1
References: [designtaxi](https://designtaxi.com/news/422966/Lab-Grown-Shoe-Material-Stitched-From-Bacteria-Steps-Toward-A-Greener-Future/) & [modern-synthesis](https://modern-synthesis.com/?utm_source=DesignTAXI&utm_medium=DesignTAXI&utm_term=DesignTAXI&utm_content=DesignTAXI&utm_campaign=DesignTAXI)

Biotechnology company Modern Synthesis makes use of sugar drawn from plant waste and other microbes in order to grow 'microbial textiles.' This process ultimately leads to a sustainable option for the traditional fabric to construct footwear through bacterial fermentation.

The material at the end of this process looks something like nylon or a coated textile with a feel that is similar to paper without fragility. This is an eco-friendly material that can be dyed and also be given a fusion of coatings, making it versatile to work for. The shoes that are made from this material are not available to purchase but there is a new lab in South London that has been working on creating prototypes to test and work with.

Image Credit: Modern Synthesis