News In Brief

With cotton prices high, Hanes looks to flax

Kai Ryssdal Apr 12, 2011

This final note today, in which the Wall Street Journal notices that your underwear is newsworthy.

The paper reports today that HanesBrands Incorporated, maker of clothing — but probably known best for its undergarments — is trying to find a way around record cotton prices. They’re considering flax fiber, more often used for its seeds and oil.

Hanes is working with a company called Naturally Advanced Technologies, which says it’s had good results with flax — more commonly associated with making linen.

The company says its noticed improved moisture wicking and reduced… shrinkage.

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