TYPEONE Magazine returns with a compelling and thought-provoking editorial curated by the brilliant Norwegian design studio, Olsson Barbieri. This issue ventures beyond traditional design conversations, diving into the dynamic intersection of food, packaging, and typography. Through 136 pages of essays, interviews, and design showcases, the Olsson Barbieri team have crafted an issue that beautifully challenges readers to rethink how design shapes the way we interact with food, culture, and the environment.
At its core, TYPEONE issue 09 unpacks the ecological, cultural, and political implications of food packaging through a typographic lens whilst simultaneously calling readers to action, urging the creative industry to consider its role in fostering sustainability and reshaping global consumption systems. This was the biggest undertaking (and biggest print run) for us to date, and I hope you enjoy digesting another printed publication of TYPEONE magazine – keep reading to learn more about some of the JUICY topics inside, but first materials.
Sustainable Materials and Innovative Print Techniques
Issue 09 embodies its themes not just in content but also in its physical form. The magazine cover features perforated artwork and a unique tear-strip and hanger inspired by a packaging design designed by Olson Barbieri. Fun fact: the cover and the Opinion piece inside are printed using Living Ink Technologies’ Offset Algae Ink™, a sustainable innovation in ink technology utilising eco-friendly pigments derived from algae.
Our commitment to sustainability continues with the inner pages printed on GF Smith Paper’s GF Accent recycled paper, while the Opinion section uses GF Moon Extract, a paper stock crafted from recycled coffee cups. These carefully selected materials helped underline and form a strong foundation for the issue’s message. But beyond their ecological benefits, these materials were specially chosen to help create a sensory experience for the reader, with textures and finishes that evoke a connection to the theme of packaging as well.
A Fresh Perspective on Food Politics
Now, let’s dive in! Our journey begins with a provocative essay by food writer Alicia Kennedy, whose sharp insights invite readers to confront the often-overlooked systems that shape our food choices. In her essay, Kennedy examines the politics of food through a multidisciplinary lens, weaving together themes of sustainability, labour, and consumption. She challenges us to question the structures—corporate, agricultural, and governmental—that influence what ends up on our plates and the narratives that surround these processes. By dissecting these power dynamics, Kennedy reveals how food production is not just a matter of taste or preference but an intricate web of economic and social forces that impact the environment, workers’ rights, and global equity.
Spotlighting Design Studios Who are Shaping the Future
In its studio interview section, we spotlight innovative industry leaders such as Sarah Di Domenico and Justin Lortie of Studio Wedge and Katie Levy and Mike McVicar of Studio Gander. These conversations reveal how designers are redefining brand identities and creating packaging solutions that prioritise sustainability and storytelling.
For those with a passion for packaging design, Mat Bogust of Think Packaging shares practical advice in the Insights section on crafting clever and impactful designs that turn simple materials into interactive experiences.
Typographic Narratives in Food Branding
Typography enthusiasts will find much to savour in this issue, with features exploring how type shapes perceptions of taste and brand identity. Contributors such as Liviu Andronic, Grafis Nusantara, and Studio Land share insights into crafting typefaces that resonate with food brands. Jingqi Fan offers a unique perspective by blending Chinese nostalgia with Latin-type in a visual journey through food and culture, celebrating the emotional and cultural dimensions of design.
This exploration of typography in food branding reveals its profound impact on consumer psychology and brand loyalty. Fonts can evoke flavours, create mood, and communicate trust, all without a single word of explanation. By delving into the nuances of how typefaces are crafted and applied, issue 09 invites readers to consider typography as a key ingredient in the recipe for a successful brand.
A Taste of Home: Recipes That Tell Stories
As an extra special feature, we take a temporary heartfelt departure from its usual Opinion section, replacing it with a unique collection of family recipes contributed by the issue’s diverse roster of creatives. This section not only offers readers an intimate glimpse into the personal lives of the contributors but also celebrates the universal language of food—a medium through which memories, traditions, and cultural identities are passed down.
Each recipe is more than just a set of instructions; it’s a story in itself. From comforting dishes steeped in nostalgia to vibrant flavours that represent global culinary heritage, these contributions reflect the contributors’ roots and the deep connections they have with their families and communities. Accompanying these recipes are anecdotes and reflections that make them come alive, transforming a simple dish into a narrative of belonging, love, and shared experience.
This is personally one of my favourite features of the entire issue that Olsson Barbieri proposed, having also been able to contribute a recipe my twin sister and I created together. The integration of these recipes serves as a beautiful reminder of the sensory richness that food and design share. Just as a typeface can convey personality and emotion, a recipe can tell a story and evoke powerful memories.
A Global Perspective on Packaging Design
Olsson Barbieri extends their curatorial touch to the Designers List, featuring a handpicked selection of creatives and resources focused on food packaging. This section serves as a rich repository of inspiration, empowering readers to explore new design approaches and learn from pioneers in the field. Finally, we finish the issue with our Idol section where Craig Berry explores the deep-running principles that Olsson Barbieri has, specifically exploring how they define success within the packaging design industry — a super insightful piece that spotlights the foundational principles that have informed this issue’s editorial.
A Celebration of Design and Action
TYPEONE Magazine Issue #09 is more than a visual feast; it’s a rallying cry for designers, typographers, and readers alike to question, reflect, and take action. It celebrates the convergence of food, typography, language, and packaging design, inspiring us to reimagine the way we design and consume.
To sign off..
Thank you each every partner, contributor and of course our Guest Editori Olsson Barbieri who helped make this issue so gerat.
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