RipeLocker Raises $5 Million to Extend the Post-Harvest Life of Perishables
SEATTLE, WA - Another crucial advantage is emerging in the world of fresh produce, this time in terms of packaging, as RipeLocker announced it has received $5 million in series B funding to continue its work in extending the post-harvest life of perishables.
“Over the past few years, we have been actively working with some of the largest growers in the world to test our RipeLocker containers,” said Founder and CEO George Lobisser. “We are the only company with the data as to how perishables respond under low-pressure vacuum over long periods of time to delay senescence (aging) and decay. This infusion of significant new capital enables us to leverage this data, begin manufacturing the commercial product, and scale the company to meet the increasing demand from global and national produce and flower growers.”
The new funds will go toward enhancing the company’s RipeLocker containers, utilizing the precise operating data the company has accumulated after years of trials, and manufacturing the containers for commercial availability for select clients this summer, according to a press release.
RipeLocker’s patented, low-atmosphere containers are pallet-size, made from recycled materials, reusable, and made to extend the post-harvest life of fresh produce and flowers by weeks. RipeLocker has already completed efficacy trials across several high-value categories such as berries, pomegranates, cherries, and papayas.
RipeLocker containers utilize a unique system to precisely manage the atmosphere within the containers to extend the life of perishables, controlling oxygen, pressure, CO2, and humidity levels. Each of these operating parameters are specifically tailored to meet the needs of each type of fresh produce or flower kept within the container. The system also makes precise adjustments to respond to changes in the storage or shipping environment in order to reduce decay and prevent damage.
What will this exciting innovation mean for suppliers moving forward? As always, keep reading ANUK as we keep our eye on the newswire.
