Revolutionizing Chocolate: The Dengo 80g Bar

Brazil & Murgel Design Studio's Edible Masterpiece

The Dengo 80g chocolate bar is far from typical. Its design is a reflection of the Atlantic Forest, the source of Dengo's cacao. The bar's shape mimics dry leaves on the ground, the foliage of tall trees, and a variety of seeds. The aesthetics are also influenced by Tarsila do Amaral and Lasar Segall, two leading Brazilian Modern Artists. The result is a chocolate bar that is not just a treat, but a work of art.

What sets the Dengo 80g apart is its unique approach to light and form. The glossy surface of the chocolate, indicative of its quality, is designed to interact with light in a tangible way. The combination of 3D and 2D lines creates volumes and shapes that portray elements from the Atlantic Forest. The chocolate becomes a sculpture, representing seeds, fruits, and leaves, aiming to inspire and create brand recognition.

The creation process of the Dengo 80g is a blend of traditional and modern techniques. After initial hand-carved wax modeling, a digital model was developed to generate the moulding templates in CNC machined aluminum. These templates were used to manufacture high-fidelity polycarbonate chocolate moulds, ensuring the high-polished finishing of the chocolate.

The Dengo 80g is more than just a chocolate bar; it's an interactive experience. Upon unwrapping, the consumer is met with an unexpected shape. The dynamic thickness of the bar allows for a crisp snap, signaling well-tempered chocolate and enhancing the flavor perception. The design communicates the cacao's origin and the brand's commitment to quality.

The project, which took place in Sao Paulo between May and October 2018, was heavily influenced by the origin of Dengo's cacao: the cabruca, a traditional cocoa agroforestry system located in the heart of the Atlantic Forest in Bahia, Brazil. The design team faced the challenge of reflecting the brand's strong Brazilian identity and style, as well as its commitment to environmental and social impact. The result is a chocolate bar that tells a story of its origin and disrupts the monotony found in ordinary chocolate bars.

The Dengo 80g chocolate bar is a testament to the power of design in transforming everyday objects into extraordinary experiences. It was awarded the Golden A' Food, Beverage and Culinary Arts Design Award in 2020, a recognition of its outstanding creativity and impact. This edible masterpiece is a celebration of Brazil's rich biodiversity, a tribute to its modern artists, and a testament to the power of innovative design.