Overview
ISO 2820:1974 - Leather - Raw hides of cattle and horses - Method of trim specifies a uniform method for trimming and presenting cattle and horse raw hides intended for the tanning industry. Published by ISO/TC 120 (Leather) in 1974, the standard defines the intended shape and cut lines for hides after slaughtering and flaying, with two illustrative figures showing the required shape.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope and application
- Applies to all cattle and horse raw hides obtained after slaughtering and flaying and intended for tanning.
- Definition
- Trim (of a hide): the shape given to a hide with its ultimate use in mind.
- Method of trim - cattle
- Hide presented without head (head cut straight behind the ears).
- Fore shanks cut at right angles immediately above the knee; hind shanks cut at right angles at the hock.
- Tail cut off not more than 25 cm from the butt.
- Hides must be presented without excess fat, flesh, or any other material unsuitable for making leather.
- Method of trim - horses
- Hide presented without muzzle.
- Fore shanks cut at right angles immediately above the knee.
- Hind shanks cut at right angles between the hock and the hoof.
- Tail open and cut off not more than 25 cm from the butt.
- Illustrations
- Two figures in the standard show the required shape and cut lines for cattle and horse hides.
- Practical note
- To establish origin, part of the udder containing a teat may be retained on cow hides.
Applications and who uses it
- Primary users
- Tanneries, hide processors and leather manufacturers.
- Slaughterhouses and abattoirs preparing hides for sale or shipment.
- Quality inspectors, graders and trading intermediaries in the hide and leather supply chain.
- Practical benefits
- Ensures consistent presentation for grading, inspection and processing.
- Facilitates international trade by harmonizing hide preparation and reducing disputes.
- Minimizes contamination and unnecessary material on hides, improving yield and processing efficiency.
Related standards (if applicable)
- ISO 2820 is one of several standards produced by ISO/TC 120 (Leather). Organizations handling raw hides should also consult other ISO leather and material standards and national regulations covering hide hygiene, transport and traceability.
Keywords: ISO 2820, leather, raw hides, cattle hides, horse hides, method of trim, trimming, tanning industry, hide presentation.
