RipeLocker Bets on Container-Scale Vacuum Storage to Unlock Global Produce Markets

RipeLocker—the startup behind drum-sized vacuum chambers that dramatically extend the shelf-life of fresh produce—is developing a new shipping container-sized chamber that will allow firms to ship perishables globally without first having to transfer them into individual drums.

Seattle-based Ripelocker is best known for reusable drums that create a near-vacuum, ultra-low-oxygen environment for perishables from blueberries and avocados to flowers and hops. Unlike modified/controlled atmosphere approaches that flush sealed bags or containers with nitrogen, Ripelocker sucks out the air, monitors conditions inside, and dynamically controls oxygen and CO₂ levels.

The system has been particularly successful in stationary storage applications, enabling firms to extend selling seasons and secure higher prices, says president Brendon Anthony, PhD.

While the drums also work in transit, he says, they present challenges. First, shippers have to transfer goods from boxes or trays into individual Ripelocker drums and then load them one by one into shipping containers. And second, a container filled with Ripelocker drums holds only about half as much fruit as a palletized container.

“When you fill Ripelockers into a shipping container, you only get about half the capacity,” Anthony tells AgFunderNews. “Which is a losing proposition, because even though you’re getting the extended shelf-life, you’re doubling the freight cost.

“Our customers were telling us: We love the technology, and you’ve demonstrated that it’s better than controlled or modified atmosphere, but can you scale your chamber to the form factor of a refrigerated container?”