Fresh produce packaging is entering a new phase—one where shelf‑life performance, waste reduction, and regulatory readiness must advance together. Nowhere is this pressure felt more acutely than in retail, where every additional day of freshness reduces shrink, limits markdowns, and improves the shopper experience. Against this backdrop, It’s Fresh Limited, our parent company, has been selected for the IFPA Packaging Innovation Program 2026, recognising its role in delivering practical, future‑ready solutions for the fresh produce supply chain.

What we’re developing through the program 

As part of the program, RYPEN will be integrated into the development of a recyclable film solution for: Cardboard punnets, and pre-prepared salad packaging. 

The goal is simple and measurable: prolong shelf life and reduce waste, without compromising recyclability—or adding complexity for packers. 

How RYPEN supports freshness (without sacrificing flavour) 

RYPEN Technology is designed to work throughout the supply chain—from packing and transport, through distribution, right to the retail shelf. By capturing ethylene naturally, RYPEN slows the fruit’s internal ripening rhythm while keeping a flavour‑led approach front and centre—so freshness improvements don’t come at the cost of eating quality. 

Proven in market—now scaling the retail offer 

Our first step into retail was the RYPEN Pad, which consumers may already notice with soft berries and fresh‑cut fruit. It helps protect condition through the final part of the journey – the supermarket shelf. Now, we’re taking that same proven performance further—into recyclable film and liner structures that fit existing packing operations, helping growers, packers, and shippers improve outcomes without changing what already works. 

Why this matters—especially for long supply chains 

For fresh produce businesses shipping through extended routes (including US supply chains, moving product globally), maintaining condition is the difference between reaching consumers at peak ripeness—or losing value along the way. Pairing active shelf‑life performance with recyclable packaging is a practical path to fewer losses, better returns, and produce that remains in better condition on shelves for longer.