Revolutionizing Snack Packaging: Upcycled Organic Plantain Chips

Unveiling Nik Ingersoll's Award-Winning Design for Barnana

Nik Ingersoll, the co-founder, CMO, and designer of Barnana, has introduced a groundbreaking design in the snack industry. The Upcycled Organic Plantain Chips packaging is the first of its kind, offering a flavor-forward, organic, ridged plantain chip in a visually striking package. The design inspiration comes from the brand's commitment to upcycle bananas and plantains that would otherwise go to waste on farms in Latin America.

The unique properties of this design lie in its sustainability and visual appeal. The packaging uses the texture of plantain leaves, layered to create depth, and bright, tropical colors to differentiate between flavors. This design has not only made the product stand out on the shelves but also communicates Barnana's mission to reduce food waste on banana farms.

The realization of this design involved the use of a registered matte material for the bag, with a glossy finish for the logo. The technical specifications include two sizes: a regular size of 12"H x 8"W and a small size of 8"H x 5.5"W. The design tags include organic, sustainable, packaging, bright, vibrant, bananas, and natural, reflecting the brand's ethos and the product's unique features.

The design process was a journey that started in July 2017, with the global roll-out in partnership with Whole Foods Market and Amazon beginning in January 2018. The research process involved sourcing organic plantains, finding a machine that could create ridged chips, and identifying high-quality coconut oil. The packaging concept and flavor profiles were tested in focus groups at the Barnana office in Santa Monica.

The design faced challenges in maintaining the authenticity of the plantain while differentiating between products. The goal was to break through the noise of bland tortilla and potato chips with a vibrant design that would educate consumers about Barnana's mission. The design was awarded Silver in the A' Packaging Design Award in 2018, a testament to its innovation and creativity.

In conclusion, Nik Ingersoll's design for Barnana's Upcycled Organic Plantain Chips packaging has set a new standard in the snack industry. It combines sustainability, visual appeal, and flavor-forward innovation to create a product that stands out on the shelves and communicates a powerful message about reducing food waste. The design's success is a testament to the power of creativity and innovation in transforming everyday products into something extraordinary.