SUMMARY

Buzzly is a mock edible insect company that I came up with for my VisCom: Graphic Design class. I created a graphic standard that introduces the company’s logo standard, business systems, and applications to marketing products. Buzzly strives to provide protein bars containing insects as a healthy alternative. The protein-rich snack/meal reflects the company’s commitment to customer health and lowering carbon footprints.

The brand’s mission is to educate people about the benefits of accepting insects as a substitute for protein sources while also being mindful of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. For our product, we use Hermetia illucens, otherwise known as the black soldier fly, as they are high in protein.

I learned that when creating a brand’s identity, it is necessary to consider designs for various marketing methods and packaging. Key factors include color palette, typography, and logo specifications. The three components set guidelines for each business system and application. Another important thing I learned is that having consistent design aesthetics for marketing and packaging makes a brand more recognizable and professional.

2. DEFINE

Creative Brief

1. NEEDS
   The unique packaging for my edible insect product will enhance saleability by mimicking a ladybug’s folding mechanism to open up the protein bar box. My produce will also be unfolded but will have flaps on the sides mimicking a ladybug’s wing, enhancing its presence among the competitors. Another aim would be for the consumers to purchase whole boxes due to the aesthetically pleasing packaging.
2. BACKGROUND
   The growing threat to food security has turned many countries’ attention towards edible insects as they provide nutritional benefits and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Despite the rising attention to substituting insects as protein sources, the market struggles with its direct use of insect images or silhouettes in packaging. Hermetia illucens, otherwise known as the black soldier fly, have been gathering attention as a potential substitute for protein sources.
3. PROJECT OBJECTIVE
   Some countries in Asia have normalized the consumption of certain insects, even considering some to be expensive delicacies. The introduction of edible insects into Western diets will be difficult due to the association of insects with dirt and disgust. The protein-rich insect in a protein bar should advocate the nutritional values, giving Western cultures a reason to adopt it into their diet. The aim is to increase brand awareness while educating the benefits of accepting insects as a substitute for protein sources. The design of the packaging will set itself apart with its playful component and clean design.
4. PROJECT STRATEGY
   The marketing strategy for my product will mainly be through grocery stores and social media. The product will be in grocery stores, where it will stand out among other protein boxes with its unique packaging. Social media advertising would help market the product to a younger audience and possibly hop on trends.
5. MESSAGE
   “Explore your health, live a little.”
   The message that I want to get across to the audience is that the use of edible insects is not something gross. It is a healthy alternative to our protein sources, and we should be mindful of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
6. AUDIENCE
   Parents: Since the packaging is playful and the content is healthy, it will attract parents. The nutritional benefits could reconstruct the way parents view edible insect products.
   College students who work out: Busy college students who work out are always in need of a source of protein. They are also more adventurous and love to explore healthy alternatives. The packaging could attract them as long as the price is reasonable.