is a graphic designer creating visual identities and narrative environments, currently in the Bay Area.
How can we reimagine America’s protein sources?
Power-packed Protein
80% of the world already feasts on insects daily, yet this protein source is widely unused in the United States. In comparison to traditional protein sources, insects produce almost no methane and require minimal feed, water and space.
Mission
Introduce insects as a protein source to an American audience. Create a single-serve product that doesn’t sacrifice sustainability for convenience.
The trail mix uses leaf cutter ants as the protein source. In the beginning, I researched leaf cutter ants even making a visit to the UC Davis Bohart Museum ​of Entomology.
Leaf cutter ants have been a source of nutrients for over 500 years in Colombian culture. Harvesting the ants serves as a source of income for locals. After harvesting, the ants are soaked in a salty brine and roasted (they taste like bacon!).
The word “bachaco” is a common name for leaf cutter ants in South America. Bachaco Bites became the name for the company because it is recognizable for South Americans yet intriguing for North Americans.
Final Logo
The final logo uses a heavy typeface to symbolize the strength of the ants and resiliency of nature.
How do you convince people to eat bugs? As someone who was scared to eat bugs, I thought sustainability and practicality were my main selling points to insects as an alternative protein.
For the on-the-go audience, single-use packaging is the most convenient. Bachaco Bites uses recyclable material and biomimicry form to create effective packaging.
Form
The packaging mimics the ants cutting the leaves. The abstracted leaf shape can be separated through perforations. The snack is easy to take on-the-go: hiking, commuting or studying. Additionally, the packaging can stand on the grocery store shelf while staying condensed.
Material
The packaging’s brown kraft paper makes the product easy to recycle or compost after use. The paper color communicates the authenticity and eco-friendliness of the brand.
All marketing methods are designed specifically for each medium. The statements convey the bold values of the company. The target audience can best be reached through ads near transportation.
This project was created for a packaging design class at UC Davis.