June 17, 2007
 
COMMENTARY: Clamshell Packaging is Driving Me Crazy
 
By Craig Hammond
 
Clamshell packaging, one of the most widely used forms of plastic packaging manufactured today, is driving me crazy. Every time I buy a package of batteries or ink cartridges for my printer, I need a small supply of explosives to free the product from the clamshell packaging.
 
What is clamshell packaging, you ask ? A clamshell package is a formed plastic package that encapsulates and clearly displays a product. It usually includes a hanger tab that allows the retailer to hang the product on in-store pegs, or a flat base for a free standing product on a counter or shelf.
 
I know clamshell packaging is a retailer's dream and will be with us forever. But if anybody out there knows of an easy way to open these contraptions write me at newsbrew@gmail.com
 
My sanity depends on it.
 
Craig Hammond is a former mayor of Bluefield, WV and host of Radio Active on WHIS (1440 AM) and WTZE (1470 AM) in Bluefield and Tazewell, Virginia.