NOSIGNER Leads Branding and Package Design for "UMAMINO," a Sake-Derived Fermented Umami Seasoning

NOSIGNER has directed the branding and package design for “UMAMINO,” a new fermented umami seasoning derived from Japanese sake. The product was launched on Friday, June 12, 2026, by Naorai Inc. (Headquarters: Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture; Representative Director: Koichiro Miyake), a company known for producing and selling “JOCHU” (the “third Japanese liquor”) by distilling sake using their proprietary patented “Low-Temperature Purification and Distillation” process.

NOSIGNER has been deeply involved in Naorai’s brand development since its founding, including projects such as “MIKADO LEMON” and “JOCHU.” This latest collaboration continues that partnership, crafting a seamless and consistent brand identity for the new product.

“UMAMINO” is a sustainable fermented seasoning that fully utilizes the natural amino acids derived from pure rice sake (Junmai-shu), which are generated during the distillation process of “JOCHU.” Joint research and component analysis conducted with Ritsumeikan University confirmed that the product is rich in fermentation-derived amino acids. By blending these with natural ingredients such as “Amabito no Moshio” (seaweed salt from the Seto Inland Sea), UMAMINO achieves a deep, layered umami that enhances the inherent flavors of ingredients. Simply by pouring, mixing, or simmering, it layers rich umami flavors and balances any dish, functioning much like traditional dashi or soy sauce.

To intuitively communicate the value of this novel sake-derived fermented seasoning both domestically and internationally, NOSIGNER developed the design around three core approaches:

1. Naming: Merging “UMAMI” and “AMINO”
The product name “UMAMINO” is a coined word combining “Umami,” which has become a global standard culinary term, and “Amino,” representing the rich amino acids generated during sake fermentation. It symbolizes how the power of fermentation, nurtured by traditional Japanese sake breweries, can enrich dining tables worldwide.

2. Package Design: Visualizing the Umami of Hiroshima
The organic silhouette featured at the center of the package is an abstract representation of the geographical shape of the production site (Hiroshima Prefecture for this initial launch). It visualizes how the local climate, environment, and the unique character of the brewery are condensed into a single drop of umami. As Naorai plans to release editions from various regional distilleries in the future, the packaging will adapt to reflect each specific region, offering a unique experience of collecting Japan’s diverse food cultures.

3. Global Outreach: A Bilingual Specification Overcoming Language Barriers
The packaging features a “bilingual design” that seamlessly integrates Japanese and English. By fusing traditional aesthetics with contemporary graphics, the design communicates the value of this “new Japanese seasoning” across borders, contributing to the global appreciation of Japan’s fermentation culture.

To learn more about “UMAMINO,” where traditional brewing meets modern design, or to make a purchase, please visit the link below.