Periodic Table of Design
From wine to salt, product packaging invokes a sense of chemistry
Last year we noticed the influence of biology class on some of our favorite Etsy sellers. Now, we’re seeing chem lab creeping into packaged goods design. That’s not to say that lab coats and goggles are suddenly sexy, but for info-hungry Gen Ys, the periodic table of elements motif is reflective of their growing concern with knowing the provenance of their products. 
Wines of Substance: Sorry, Two Buck Chuck, but we’re moving on up in the wine world. Though we’ve shared some lasting memories, we think it’s time to go with something a little more on our “intellectual” level. Honored by Seattle magazine as one of last year’s Best Washington Wines Under $20, Walla Walla, Washington’s Wines of Substance brings some brain power to the bar – at an agreeable price point, to boot. With an easy-to-recognize chemistry-inspired label and web address branded cork that serves as a sort of wine calling card after the bottle hits the recycling bin, the brand holds appeal for even the most discerning design eyes. The interactive website‘s carefully curated Periodic Table of Wines details each bottle’s varietal, origin, aromatics, flavorings and perfect food pairings. Also positioning itself as a digitally progressive brand, Wines of Substance was an early proponent of Twitter tasting parties for aspiring oenophiles. We suspect that these events produced some pretty colorful hashtags. 
Soso Factory: Extracting its products from the southern region of Spain, Soso Factory flaunts the types of haute salts celebrated by the foodie community, and not just for their umami factor. These rare seasonings come in a variety of flavors, including Asian, Arabian, Barbeque, Five Peppers, Indian, Smoked Paprika, and even Truffled. (Wipe that drool off your chin.) But, ascribing to the notion that such tempting tastes should not be relegated to sub-par packaging, they’re also notable for their labels (the work of esteemed graphic designer Eduardo del Fraile). Each stackable canister of Soso Sea Salts displays the first two letters of its flavor, appearing as it would on the scientific chart (e.g., In for Indian, Tr for Truffled, and so on). Soso Factory Salt’s own complete chart is printed (suitably, in periodic table form) on the outside of each boxed set. With packaging this clever, salt shakers may soon become obsolete. 
Functionalab: Futuristic nutraceutical brand Functionalab is leading the wellness revolution with its line of high-quality supplements for enduring health and beauty. Backed by a team of cosmetologists, nutritionists and health scientists, the brand offers a personalized nutrition program customized to each of its customer’s needs. Among our favorite products are the Nutrient Tonics, which are concentrated, drinkable 60ml supplements loaded with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Different formulas, such as Provino, Beauty, Energy and Zen were developed for specific outcomes, like improved cardiovascular health (Provino) and heightened relaxation (Zen). We admit we may be swayed by the scientific theme of their periodic table labels, but they certainly offer a less frightening way to get a boost than do many “enhanced” drinks now on the market. Sorry, 5 Hour Energy.