Fold: Revolutionizing Traditional Medicine One Teabag at a Time

Origami-Inspired Teabags Enhance Efficacy and Sustainability

In a blend of tradition and innovation, designers Miao Jingyi and Zou Hu have reimagined the teabag, enhancing the potency of traditional Chinese medicine and championing environmental consciousness.

The art of origami has transcended decorative boundaries, finding its way into the realm of traditional Chinese medicine through the ingenious design of Fold. This teabag, unlike its conventional counterparts, unfolds in water to form a barrel-like structure, optimizing the extraction of medicinal ingredients. This transformative design not only increases the "effective ingredients concentration" but also significantly reduces packaging volume, embodying a commitment to sustainability.

Developed through meticulous research and ergonomic testing, Fold's design is a testament to the power of thoughtful innovation. By addressing the inefficiency of standard teabags, which only yield 40% of the potential ingredient concentration, the team has created a solution that maximizes the medicinal benefits while minimizing waste. The chosen dimensions of 95 mm x 95 mm x 16 mm for the teabag and 100 mm x 100 mm x 100 mm for the outer packaging reflect a harmonious balance between form and function.

Embracing eco-friendly practices, the teabags are crafted from 100% biodegradable and renewable paper, with the origami pressing process ensuring a flat, space-efficient folding structure. The outer packaging follows suit, utilizing lightweight, sustainable materials and environmentally friendly inks. This conscious approach extends to the product's lifecycle, where the reduced transportation space by 60% translates to lower carbon emissions and production costs.

The Fold teabag's interaction with hot water is not just a brewing process but a visual spectacle. As the water is poured, the teabag gracefully expands, enhancing the brewing efficiency and offering a unique user experience. The design's completion in April 2023, after a rigorous development phase that began in July 2022, marks a significant milestone in the integration of sustainable design within traditional practices.

Recognized with the prestigious Silver A' Packaging Design Award in 2024, Fold stands as a symbol of design excellence. Its success lies not only in the aesthetic appeal and functional prowess but also in its ability to evoke positive emotions and admiration for its innovative spirit. The Fold teabag is a remarkable achievement that redefines the intersection of art, tradition, and environmental stewardship.

With intellectual property rights secured by Jingyi Miao in 2023, Fold is poised to make a lasting impact on the world of traditional medicine and sustainable design. As it garners accolades and captures the imagination of consumers and industry professionals alike, Fold is a shining example of how design can transform everyday objects into extraordinary experiences.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Mengzhen Xu
Image Credits: Image #1: Photographer Miao Jingyi, Fold, 2023. Image #2: Photographer Miao Jingyi, Fold, 2023. Image #3: Photographer Miao Jingyi, Fold, 2023. Image #4: Photographer Miao Jingyi, Fold, 2023. Image #5: Photographer Miao Jingyi, Fold, 2023.
Project Team Members: Miao Jingyi Zou Hu Duan Hongli Xu Mengzhen Chen Deteng Zhao Yizhu
Project Name: Fold
Project Client: MZ DESIGN


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