Linters are also used in hot dog and sausage casings, as well as writing paper, and in most countries, paper currency.

NPR: Texas Cotton: 'Farmer Profits at Every Step'

And for those with sensitive skin, an environmental conscience, or both, "tree free" toilet paper made from cotton linters is now available.

NPR: Texas Cotton: 'Farmer Profits at Every Step'

The cellulose from the linters is also found in cheaper brands of ice cream, where it is used to improve texture and reduce ice crystals.

NPR: Texas Cotton: 'Farmer Profits at Every Step'

And finally, a ton of cottonseed will contain about 150 pounds of "linters, "which are tiny bits of cotton fuzz that are stuck to the seed after ginning.

NPR: Texas Cotton: 'Farmer Profits at Every Step'

Linters are also used in the production of cellulose and viscose, which turns up in toothbrushes, ballpoint pens, picnic cups, and almost any item made of hard plastic.

NPR: Texas Cotton: 'Farmer Profits at Every Step'