Venkata Ravi Sankar Ummidi (PeelON)
Overview
Venkata Ravi Sankar Ummidi, commonly known as Dr. Ravi Sankar Ummidi, is a notable figure in the field of biotechnology, particularly known for his work with PeelON, a biotechnology startup specializing in biodegradable and compostable packaging for fresh produce. Dr. Ummidi serves as the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at PeelON, where he is instrumental in developing plant-based films that extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables, contributing significantly to sustainability in the fresh produce supply chain.
Recent Developments
In the past year, PeelON has made significant strides in its mission to promote sustainable packaging solutions:
- August 2025: PeelON raised $1 million in a seed funding round led by GrowX Ventures, with participation from Boston Venture Group, Clean Energy Venture Group, and Climate Angels. The funding is set to enhance R&D and expand production capacities in Visakhapatnam, India. The company aims to hire additional sales and R&D personnel and strengthen regulatory compliance efforts in India and the United States. PeelON plans to introduce new marketing campaigns and seek global certifications for its packaging solutions.
- 2024: PeelON launched its flagship products, PeelON-Fresh and PeelON-Retail+. These products provide compostable liners and bags incorporating natural antimicrobial agents and ethylene scavengers to preserve freshness and reduce spoilage.
- 2023: Collaborations with universities and labs in India and the US were established to further the application of their biodegradable films across various crops including cilantro, broccoli, leafy greens, and bananas.
Personal Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Venkata Ravi Sankar Ummidi |
| Born | Not specified |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Occupation | Chief Technology Officer at PeelON |
| Known For | Biodegradable and compostable packaging innovations |
| Education | Ph.D. in Microbiology from Andhra University |
Early Life and Education
Dr. Venkata Ravi Sankar Ummidi pursued his academic interests fervently from a young age. He completed a Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology, Biochemistry, and Chemistry from Andhra University between 2004 and 2007, where he built a strong foundation in life sciences. He further pursued a Master’s degree in Microbiology from Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, specializing in microbiological studies crucial for his future endeavors. Dr. Ravi Sankar completed his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, and Biopesticides from Andhra University in 2014. His doctoral research was pivotal in forming his career trajectory, focusing on ecological and sustainable innovations in agriculture, which later translated into his professional pursuits in the biotech industry.
Career and Notable Achievements
Dr. Ummidi’s career has been marked by several significant roles and achievements:
- Early Career: Started as a Scientist in Molecular Biology at the Translational Research Institute of Molecular Sciences.
- Chief Executive Officer at SBiotech: Prior to joining PeelON, Dr. Ummidi was the CEO of an aquaculture startup focused on sustainable aquaculture products.
- PeelON: Co-founded PeelON in 2020, where he has been at the forefront of developing biodegradable films that reduce reliance on single-use plastics in fresh produce packaging.
Current Work and Impact
As the CTO of PeelON, Dr. Ummidi plays a crucial role in steering the company’s research and innovation strategies. His work in biodegradable film technology not only aids in reducing food spoilage but also addresses the global challenge of plastic waste. Under his leadership, PeelON aims to expand its reach into new markets, including Mexico and Southeast Asia, while pioneering blockchain-enabled traceability solutions for carbon emissions and shelf-life validation.
Conclusion
Dr. Venkata Ravi Sankar Ummidi’s contributions to the field of biotechnology and sustainable packaging are steering the industry towards a more environmentally friendly future. His innovations at PeelON hold promise for reducing plastic waste in the fresh produce supply chain, a crucial step in alleviating environmental concerns globally. With ongoing expansion plans and collaborations, Dr. Ummidi and PeelON are poised to make significant impacts in the realm of sustainable packaging, potentially setting new standards in the industry.