Is Modal / Beechwood Modal Vegan? Material Facts & Alternatives

Also known as: Lenzing Modal, Beechwood fibre, HWM rayon, High Wet Modulus rayon

Vegan

No animal products or byproducts are involved in the production of this material.

Origin

Plant-derived but chemically processed — produced from cellulose extracted from beechwood (Fagus sylvatica), primarily from Austrian and Central European forests. Uses a modified viscose process.

Common Uses

Underwear, nightwear, T-shirts, sportswear, towels. Often blended with cotton or TENCEL.

Durability

Very good. Softer than cotton, retains shape better than standard viscose, and remains soft after repeated washing.

Environmental Impact

Medium Environmental Impact

Beechwood grows naturally in Central European forests without irrigation or replanting — considered a sustainable raw material. Lenzing (the dominant producer) sources from FSC-certified forests. The chemical processing stage (similar to viscose) uses caustic soda and carbon disulphide, though Lenzing uses a partially closed-loop system recovering some chemicals.

Editorial Notes

Modal is marketed as a premium viscose-type fibre. Lenzing's Modal is probably the most recognised brand. It is considerably softer and more durable than standard viscose/rayon. The primary concern is the chemical-intensive viscose production route, not animal welfare — Modal is fully vegan.