Is Modal / Beechwood Modal Vegan? Material Facts & Alternatives

Vegan status: Vegan

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

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.

Environmental impact

Rating: medium. 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.

Durability

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

Common uses

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

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.