Coir Museum Alleppey Kerala

Alleppey coir refers to a traditional craft from Alappuzha (formerly Alleppey), Kerala, where natural fiber from coconut husks is processed into various products like mats, mattings, and geo-textiles. This industry is famous for its long history, starting in 1859, and the distinctive production process involving "retting" the husks in backwater and spinning the yarn. The quality and craftsmanship have earned Alleppey coir a Geographical Indication (GI) status from the World Trade Organization.

About Alleppey coir

Origin: The coir industry has been in Alappuzha, a city formerly known as Alleppey, since 1859.

Raw Material: It is made from the husk of coconuts, which are abundant in the coastal regions of Kerala.

Production Process:

Retting: Coconut husks are soaked in saline backwaters for several months.

Defibering: The retted husks are beaten to extract the fiber.

Spinning: Women workers spin the fiber into yarn.

Product Manufacturing: Men and women work together to weave the yarn into various products.

Products: A wide variety of coir products are made, including mats, mattings, geo-textiles, and ropes.

Significance: It is the largest cottage industry in Kerala and has been a source of employment for many.

Recognition: In 2007, Alleppey Coir was granted Geographical Indication (GI) status, a recognition of its unique quality and origin.