Kavita Shukla is an American inventor and entrepreneur renowned for creating FreshPaper, an innovative solution aimed at reducing food spoilage and combating global hunger. As the Founder and CEO of The FRESHGLOW Co., Shukla has dedicated her career to developing simple yet effective technologies that address significant global challenges.Lemelson-MIT Institute+3USPTO+3Log in or sign up to view+3The FRESHGLOW Co.+5kms-page+5kms-page+5
Early Inspiration and Innovation
Shukla’s journey began at the age of 12 during a visit to her grandmother in India. After accidentally consuming tap water, her grandmother administered a homemade remedy of spices, which prevented her from falling ill. This experience sparked Shukla’s curiosity about the preservative properties of common spices. Upon returning to the United States, she started experimenting with various spice blends, leading to the development of FreshPaper—a biodegradable sheet infused with organic botanicals designed to keep produce fresh for longer periods. M21D+1USPTO+1The FRESHGLOW Co.+2USPTO+2M21D+2
Establishing The FRESHGLOW Co.
In 2010, Shukla founded Fenugreen, which later became The FRESHGLOW Co., to market FreshPaper. Initially selling at farmers’ markets and street fairs in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the product quickly gained popularity for its simplicity and effectiveness. Today, FreshPaper is utilized by farmers and families worldwide and is available through major retailers and online platforms. The Index Project+7Lemelson-MIT Institute+7kms-page+7
Recognition and Impact
Shukla holds four patents and has received numerous accolades for her work. She was honored with the INDEX Design to Improve Life Award, the world’s largest prize for design. Her story has been featured in prominent publications such as The New York Times, The Washington Post, Vogue, Oprah Magazine, and on media outlets like The Today Show and CNN. Additionally, Shukla has been recognized in Forbes‘ “30 Under 30” list and TIME magazine’s “5 Most Innovative Women in Food.” Lemelson-MIT Institute+2kms-page+2Designboom+2
Ongoing Contributions
Beyond her entrepreneurial endeavors, Shukla serves on the Board of Directors of the International Housewares Association and was appointed Commissioner on the CSIS Trade Commission on Affirming American Leadership. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Harvard University. kms-page+1American History Museum+1
Through her innovative spirit and commitment to social entrepreneurship, Kavita Shukla continues to make significant strides in addressing food waste and promoting sustainability worldwide.kms-page
For a deeper insight into her journey and the impact of FreshPaper, you can watch her TEDx talk
