Merino wool, nature's super fiber and its dark side: mulesing. In this blog post, you can find out why Alpin Loacker has deliberately opted for mulesing-free merino wool.
Mulesingis a painful method of reducing maggot infestation on the buttocks of merino sheep. The reason is to increase profit: Merino sheep are bred to produce more wool, which is why the animals have a particularly wrinkled skin that allows even more fur producton. The folds in the skin cause the sheep to sweat more, which leads to a build-up of moisture - ideal for flies to lay their eggs. Fly maggot infestation is a disease in which the Merino sheep are literally eaten alive by maggots. Farmers want to prevent this by cutting off large areas of the skin there, so that a smooth skin forms in which the flies cannot nest in the first place. This is very painful and agonizing for the animals.
Is there mulesing-free merino wool clothing and if so, what should I look out for?
If you buy merino clothing , you should make sure that the wool comes from countries that have been proven not to practice mulesing. In New Zealand, for example, mulesing has been officially banned since 2018. You should also contact the companies to find out exactly where the merino wool comes from. The price and quality seal are often a good indication, as conspicuously cheap merino products should be viewed with extreme skepticism.
Is ALPIN LOACKER merino wool clothing mulesing free?
With our large selection of merino clothing for men and women, it is important to us to do our part for fair and animal-friendly wool. Whether it's a merino shirt, hiking socks, merino underwear or a merino jacket. Our wool comes from farmers in Australia and New Zealand, as well as Argentina and South Africa, and is imported via a renowned German supplier: Südwolle Group. A supplier that is subject to the ZQ standards. The aim of this seal is to sensitize buyers to this and to incorporate their own values into their purchasing decisions. The ZQ seal ensures that the merino wool complies with the five values: animal welfare, sustainability, responsibility and verifiable sources.
What can I actively do to prevent mulesing?
For many mountain enthusiasts, sustainability and respect for the environment are important. Purchasing decisions play a big part in this. However, if you want to become even more active, you can find out more from PETA and take part in their online petition, for example. You can also find out more about merino wool and its properties in our ALPIN LOACKER outdoor guide.
