New York-based startup Everbloom has developed a cashmere alternative called renoa using recycled protein waste and artificial intelligence to produce a washable, potentially more affordable textile fiber. The material has received a new fiber classification from the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the first of its kind in nearly 25 years, as the company prepares to launch its first consumer products in 2027.
According to Everbloom’s product announcement, renoa is designed to replicate the softness and lightweight properties of cashmere while improving durability and ease of care. The company has spent three years developing the material and is currently expanding production capacity.
Everbloom Uses AI to Turn Protein Waste Into Textile Fibers
Renoa is manufactured using protein-rich waste materials, including cashmere and wool scraps, alongside down and feather residue from the bedding industry. Everbloom processes these materials into a powder, combines them with a biodegradable biopolymer, and extrudes the mixture into fibers designed to resemble natural textiles.
The company developed a proprietary AI model called Braid AI to support material research and development. The system helps engineers determine how different protein inputs and processing conditions affect fiber properties, including softness, strength, and dyeability.
Everbloom’s first commercial application focuses on replacing some cashmere in clothing, although its technology can be adapted to produce fibers with different characteristics. The company says renoa is also compatible with existing yarn-spinning and textile manufacturing equipment.
Renoa Receives New US Textile Fiber Classification
The FTC granted renoa a new fiber classification, allowing manufacturers to identify the material separately when labeling textile products. The designation represents the first new apparel fiber classification in approximately 25 years, according to Everbloom.
Traditional cashmere production requires goats raised primarily in regions such as Mongolia and China, where intensive grazing has contributed to grassland degradation. Everbloom aims to reduce reliance on conventional cashmere by incorporating recycled protein waste into textile production.
First Renoa Clothing Products Expected in 2027
Everbloom co-founder and CEO Sim Gulati demonstrated several prototype garments at the company’s New York headquarters, including a crewneck sweater, knitted gloves, and a scarf. According to a TechCrunch report, the scarf retained its appearance after repeated washing and tumble drying, with no visible pilling or reported shrinkage.
The company is working with clothing manufacturers to incorporate renoa into commercial garments, initially as a blended material. Early products are expected to contain approximately 80% cashmere and 20% renoa, with additional finishing processes intended to maintain softness and improve durability.
Gulati said the first consumer product containing renoa is expected to become available in the second quarter of 2027. Everbloom is also developing partnerships with fashion brands as it prepares to manufacture the fiber at commercial scale.
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