ANALYSIS OF NATURAL MATERIALS FOR THE PACKAGING DESIGN OF AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS IN HUNAN PROVINCE, PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA

Abstract

The aim of this study was to 1) investigate the types of natural materials used in the design of packaging for agricultural products and 2) analyze the application patterns of natural materials in combination with traditional craftsmanship and modern innovative technologies. A qualitative research methodology was applied through document review and in-depth interviews with six experts.

The findings revealed that natural materials for packaging design can be divided into three categories: 1) natural plant-based materials such as bamboo, banana leaves and dried grass; 2) recycled materials from agricultural waste processing such as eggshells and sugarcane leaves; and 3) innovative materials such as pineapple fibers, bioplastics and locally sourced plant fibers. The packaging designs generally followed three main approaches: the observation of life experiences, the integration of traditional craft techniques such as weaving and bamboo crafts, and the application of innovative technologies such as 3D printing and the molding of bio-based materials. Examples such as the bamboo tube rice packaging and the CHAMU tea packaging show the creative combination of natural materials with advanced processes to enhance product value while maintaining environmental sustainability. These results highlight that the selection of appropriate materials and processes for agricultural product packaging design can effectively promote environmental sustainability and convey cultural values through agricultural products.