CONDIMENTS
Guac & Go
Guac & Go is a conceptual brand offering a variety of on-the-go condiments, inspired by the vibrant aesthetics of avocados. This design project explores the fusion of aesthetics and functionality, creating a fresh and appealing visual identity for portable condiments. It emphasises convenience without compromising on quality, making it the perfect companion for busy lifestyles. The brand’s playful yet elegant design celebrates the versatility of avocados, bringing a touch of vibrancy to every meal.
Year: 2022
Type: Packaging Design
Based on: Fruit Analysis and Brand Packaging
Guac & Go
CONCEPT
As its name suggests, "Guac & Go" embodies convenience and functionality in condiment packaging. The design allows users to dispense condiments effortlessly through a squeezable nozzle at one end, while the peel-back bottom lid provides an additional option for dipping. Drawing inspiration from the structural form of the avocado, this packaging merges aesthetic appeal with practicality, ensuring a clean and mess-free user experience.
Why on the go condiments?
CAUSE
With the rise of convenience stores and on-the-go eating single-serve condiments and dips are increasingly popular, especially among Zoomers who prefer customisable options like cut veggies with hummus. However, traditional ketchup packets, around for over 40 years, are messy, difficult to open, and often insufficient, with cluttered packaging further detracting from the user experience.
Enhancing flavour, elevating convenience, redefining packaging!
How might we design seasonal and cohesive packaging for single-serve condiments that cater to individuals who enjoy enhancing their meals with dips and spreads?
Fruit Probing
EXPLORATIONS
Form
Avocados are distinctive pear-shaped fruits that grow on lush tropical evergreen trees. They are easily recognized by their textured, rough green skin. At its core lies a large, smooth seed, encased by the flesh. This unique combination of texture, taste, & visual appeal makes avocados a standout in the fruit world.
Structure
The pericarp is made up of three layers: the exocarp, which forms the skin or rind; the mesocarp, the fleshy, edible part of the fruit; and the endocarp, a thin inner layer next to the seed coat.
Colors
Ripe avocados feel firm with a slight give when squeezed and are usually a dark green color. If the avocado is black and mushy, it's overripe. Conversely, if it’s bright green and very hard, it’s underripe but can still be used with one of the following tricks.
Textures
The fruit's outer skin can range from thin, similar to an apple's, to coarse and woody in texture. Inside, avocados have a smooth, creamy consistency that blends effortlessly into various dishes. When ripe, the flesh is soft, oily, and buttery, with a texture similar to a banana but with a slight bite and an oily, rather than powdery, feel.
Haptic
An avocado is ripe and ready to eat if it yields to firm, gentle pressure. While ripe avocados may have a darker color, it's best to rely on both feel and color, as color can vary. The fruit should feel slightly soft but not mushy when touched.
Aroma
Ripe avocados have a pleasant, slightly sweet aroma and a mildly nutty flavor. As the fruit spoils, it may develop an off taste and odor. A sour taste or smell could indicate bacterial spoilage, while a chemical odor or taste suggests rancidity, and the avocado should be discarded.
Taste
Avocados have a mild, slightly nutty, or buttery taste, which can vary with ripeness and variety. Their flavor is subtle, with hints of earthiness or grassiness. Unripe avocados are green and firm, while ripe ones are dark purple or black and yield to gentle pressure.
Perceptions
The fruit’s outer skin has a woody texture, but beneath it lies soft, buttery flesh. Its creamy consistency melts in your mouth, offering a rich texture and leaving a subtly sweet taste on your palate as you swallow.
Natural Packaging
Perishable items don’t need thick, bulky packaging for protection; a thoughtfully designed, well-textured, and appropriately shaped packaging can safeguard them effectively while maintaining elegance.
Interesting Facts
The word "avocado" originates from the Nahuatl word āhuacatl, meaning "testicle," likely due to its shape and its reputation as an aphrodisiac among the Aztecs. Native to Mexico and Central America, avocados belong to the same family as cinnamon and contain more potassium than bananas.
