Nutshell
Nutshell makes collapsible coolers from coconut husks—natural insulation that keeps ice frozen longer than plastics.
Nutshell was born in a fishing village in the Philippines, where optimism is contagious, and resourcefulness is a way of life. What began as a graduate school project between founders David Cutler and Tamara Mekler to improve local fish packaging became a business improving lives and inspiring change from California to Lubang Island.
Today, they make biodegradable packaging under the Fortuna Cools brand and sustainable consumer products like the Nutshell Cooler. They spent years working alongside farmers and engineers in the Philippines, turning agricultural waste into premium insulation for the Nutshell Cooler. To do so, they partner with coconut fiber processors in rural communities, creating new jobs and supporting local businesses.
Coconut Husk Insulation
The magic of Nutshell is in the coconut husk insulation. Nutshell is made from fibers from upcycled coconut husks, a leftover agricultural byproduct that would otherwise have been burned as waste. They buy their husks from small-scale farmers in the Philippines, providing them extra income for food, school fees, and community investment.
The husk of a coconut is a natural marvel: it protects the water inside, keeping it cool in the heat and safe when it falls. Coconut husk fibers are hollow and contain tons of tiny trapped air pockets—the same exact structure that plastic foam insulation uses to reduce heat transfer (i.e., conduction). You’ll hardly see a difference if you compare Expanded Polystyrene foam (EPS, a.k.a. Styrofoam) and coconut fiber side by side under a microscope.
Left – Cooler collapsed. Right – Cooler erected.
The Modern, Sustainable Cooler
Rugged, collapsible coolers insulated with coconut husks—nature’s original cooler. They feature a convenient space-saving design and unmatched insulation performance, and they’re ready for your next camping adventure. Nutshell’s removable, leakproof welded liner makes cleaning a breeze. Rinse it with water and mild soap and let it dry before storing.
- Capacity: 20QT/36 cans
- Dimensions: 13″H x 18.75″L x 10.5″W | 6″
- Folded Width
- Weight: 8 lbs
- Ice retention: +48H
No garage, no problem. Nutshell packs flat to half its width so you can store it away in the closet, under the couch, or in the trunk of your car!
I thought this made their cooler super innovative; just collapse it to save space.
Use the comfortable side handles or shoulder strap to take Nutshell anywhere.
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