Ben’s Original dried rice sustainable packaging

The existing Ben’s Original dried rice packaging comes in large plastic bags (1.6kg, 907g, or 379g). While the transparent section allows customers to easily see the product, the overall design lacks differentiation between flavours, relying solely on slight colour and image variations. Although cooking instructions are included, measuring rice without a cup, especially outdoors can be inconvenient for customers unfamiliar with rice preparation.

Project Type

School Project

Brand Name

Ben's Original Rice

Service

Packaging design

Tools

Photoshop, Illustrator

The Challenge

The primary challenge was to redesign the packaging in a way that enhances usability, convenience, and sustainability while maintaining the product's attractiveness on the shelf. The new design needed to support both individuals and families looking for simple, portioned rice options. The key goals or requirements

Create a more convenient packaging system with easy portion control.
Add user-friendly features such as measurement lines and a pouring spout.
Ensure the packaging is both portable and practical for use at home and outdoors.
Make the design visually distinct for each flavours while keeping a cohesive look.
Incorporate sustainable materials (e.g., compostable windows, reduced plastic use).
Strengthen the brand’s modern and approachable identity through thoughtful design.

the process

Ideation- Mind map & Mood boards
First Concept Sketches
Second Concept Sketches
Illustrations for different flavours

The Solution

I developed two concepts to improve the design, and the most effective one was selected for the final solution. The redesigned concept introduces six triangular boxes, each representing a different rice flavour, which fit neatly into a hexagonal carrier for easy storage and portability. Each box features:

A compostable window to showcase the rice inside
Measurement lines for easy portioning without extra tools
A spout for simple, mess-free pouring

This design combines sustainability with convenience, reducing waste while enhancing usability and creating a packaging system that feels modern, practical, and customer-focused.

Packaging design for Ben's Original rice variety pack

Final Outcome

This redesign transformed the product from bulk plastic bags into a modern, eco-friendly system that is both practical and appealing. I learned how packaging design can directly impact usability and sustainability, and how thoughtful details such as portion guides and portability add real value for customers. This project reinforced the importance of balancing functionality, visual appeal, and environmental responsibility in packaging design.