Textile Industry Alert!

Lyocell Is a Generic Fiber Name; Tencel® Is Not

March 2001

You say Tencel®. We say lyocell.

Commission staff has noticed many garment labels that say Tencel® but not lyocell. When you identify fiber content on a label, or in advertising, you must use the generic fiber name recognized by the Commission. A trademark name alone does not suffice. Lyocell is the generic fiber name for a form of rayon that is often marketed as Tencel®.

Under the Textile, Wool, and Fur Labeling Acts, man-made and natural fibers must be identified by their generic names. A fiber trademark name – like Tencel® – may appear on a label if it appears next to the appropriate generic fiber name, in letters of the same size and prominence. The generic name also must be included in advertising, if the trademark name is mentioned. Before using the Tencel® trademark, you should obtain permission from the trademark owner, Tencel Ltd., a member of the Acordis Group.

For more information about proper labeling of textile, wool, and fur products, see the Federal Trade Commission’s business guide, Threading Your Way Through the Labeling Requirements Under the Textile and Wool Acts.