According to the current situation of food packaging design of Yan?an special products, using the research method of cultural gene, the genetic elements of Yan?an cave culture are interpreted from seven dimensions: modeling structure, material texture, color features, decorative details, construction technology, history and culture, and folk customs, it also discusses the design strategy of the translation design in the Yan?an special products food packaging. By deeply excavating the profound cave dwelling culture in Yan?an area, combining with modern aesthetic ideas, the cultural gene is extracted and translated into the packaging design of local specialty food, which is helpful to display its regional characteristics and cultural connotation, and to promote the local economic development and cultural communication. The results of the study realize the inheritance of regional culture and innovation of food packaging.