Hints From Heloise

Sat., Jan. 23, 1999

Dear Heloise: How about requiring the CEOs of companies that make consumer products to open those products on live television? I’m all for freshness and convenience, but sometimes the packaging can defeat even the most ingenious consumer. Vacuum-sealed plastic packaging can be more difficult to get into than Fort Knox.

The consumer runs the risk of either damaging the contents of the package or personal injury. This kind of packaging is especially difficult for those with arthritis and other ailments. Surely, American know-how can produce packaging that protects but is still easy to open. - Indianapolis Bachelor

You have my vote. I almost impaled myself trying to cut open (with scissors) a heavy plastic package. I won’t be buying that brand again. - Heloise

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