My Idea
I decided to take microwavable popcorn and reinterpret its branding and packaging. I wanted to make a healthy alternative to microwavable popcorn, for it contains carcinogens and chemicals that have been known to cause lung diseases. At first I started with the goal to make a healthier popping bag and heat resisent container, that could stand stable and spill-proof.
I then explored on the idea of home-made popcorn. The only way you can make your own popcorn is with a microwavable bag, or buy a bottle of kernels, oil, and seasoning. So I made the most convenient form of a home-made popcorn kit. It includes the proper proportion of popcorn kernels (1/3cup), 2 tbs of coconut oil, and a seasoning compartment in the lid.
How it works
When using this product, the person would empty the contents of the Maizme container and follow instructions to cook microwavable popcorn over the stove. This is in effort to educate people about healthy snacking, give them a social opportunity to do something fun with others, as well as learn how to make something they've never done before.
The last part of the process is they can just put the popcorn in a bowl, or use the spice mechanism installed in the lid. The Maizme package acts as a spill-proof container, and the person can load their popcorn in with the lid shut. The person would then find a unique "Pull" tab on the side of the lid and would pull firmly.
This tab is attached to a compartment on the underside of the lid by a string, and when pulled out fully, seasoning is released. The snacker then can complete the process by giving the closed container a shake to distribute the seasoning, open and enjoy.
Branding
The branding for Maizme popcorn was designed to be tasty, friendly and promote this idea of a healthy snack alternative. I wanted to make it stand out from the cliche "blockbuster" look on microwavable popcorn. I wanted buyers to know they were going to buy an experience.
My graphic standard goes through all the ways to use and not use the logo I designed for this product. My graphic standard also includes a business system to further strengthen an understanding of the branding.
Packaging
The packaging comes with a small card that describes the goals/mission of Maizme. The packaging stands about 5" tall and 6" wide. It does take up a bit of space which might not be ideal for transport, but it's demsnions were chosen with intent. The packaging includes official nutrition facts label with ingredients included, as well as directions for cooking the popcorn.
The packaging is made entirely from cardstock paper and a string so it is completely sustainable. To block the coconut oil on the cooked poporn from contaminating the good recyclable paper, there would be a wax paper lining that can be easily removed-- peace of mind for the environmentally-conscientious.
