Laura, from our team, is from Colombia and takes us on a packaging journey during her recent stay in her home country. Her observations and experiences reveal fascinating insights into how tradition, culture, and modernity intersect to create a unique packaging landscape that reflects the country's rich cultural heritage and contemporary trends.
The packaging design landscape in Colombia is a fascinating mix of tradition and modernity. While economic and regulatory factors have driven a shift towards plastics, the country's rich cultural heritage continues to influence packaging designs.
Researching and learning from different cultures and traditions offers valuable lessons in sustainability and innovation, sparking creativity and encouraging the exploration of new ideas. Embracing diverse practices and cultural backgrounds.
1- Traditional & Natural Elements
Colombia's diverse natural resources have long influenced its packaging traditions. Materials from corn husks, banana leaves, and the shells of various fruits such as coconut and totumo, among others, have been used for centuries, showing the ingenuity of using available resources in a sustainable way. These natural elements not only offer ecological alternatives but also celebrate Colombia's deep cultural roots.
2- Shift to Plastic
Despite Colombia's tradition of using natural materials, economic and health considerations have driven a shift towards plastic packaging. The Colombian Ministry of Health and Social Protection's sanitary law (RESOLUTION 683 DE 2012) mandates that all packaging materials in contact with food and beverages must be on the positive lists of recognized international bodies like the FDA, EU, or Mercosur. This regulation excludes many natural materials due to a lack of research, leading to an increased reliance on plastic, which more readily meets these strict standards.
3- Diverse Coffee Packaging
Colombia, the world's third-largest exporter of coffee, has a wide variety of coffee packaging designs. These range from traditional sacks and bags in natural fibers to modern and vibrant designs that reflect the country's rich coffee culture. This diversity of packaging not only responds to different market segments but also highlights the importance of coffee in Colombian culture.
4- Diversity and versatility
A particularly noteworthy observation is the use of plastic bags for the packaging of various beverages, which is an easily recyclable option.
5- Vibrant & Modern Designs
Modern Colombian packaging is characterized by bright colors and contemporary typefaces, often inspired by local traditions, biodiversity, and characteristic Colombian landscapes. This approach not only makes the products stand out on the shelf, but also conveys a sense of national pride and cultural identity.
6- Eco-Friendly Premium Packaging
There is a growing trend towards eco-friendly packaging, especially for premium products. Most premium packaging tends to have a minimalist aesthetic, reduced printing, and the use of sustainable materials. This shift not only appeals to environmentally conscious consumers but also aligns with global trends towards sustainability.
7- Creative Enterprises
Colombian entrepreneurs are showcasing their creativity through innovative packaging structures and unique unboxing experiences. These creative solutions enhance the consumer experience and differentiate products in a competitive market.
Discussion
Do you believe that returning to ancient practices could help us create a more sustainable future? Despite the obvious benefits of natural materials, there is a notable lack of research and development focused on implementing these resources for modern packaging needs. This gap represents both a challenge and an opportunity for the industry to explore sustainable alternatives further.