Designing sustainable technologies is challenging, as established technology is often more cost-effective than new, sustainable options. This study shows how a design-driven approach can advance Soluble Gas Stabilization (SGS) beyond low Technology Readiness Levels. SGS is a CO2-based method extending muscle food shelf life. A CO2 flow chamber prototype, developed from previous simulations and research, identified key parameters and adjustments for improved performance. Initial tests revealed issues such as heat build-up and meeting flow targets but also offered insights for better configurations. This paper illustrates how iterative, hypothesis-driven experimentation links theory and practice by integrating virtual simulations with hands-on prototyping. This workflow supports emerging sustainable technologies progressing from proof-of-concept to industrial-scale demonstration.