The plastic packaging known as the clamshell is on the way out, the New York Times reports.
Manufacturers are searching for alternatives due to the difficult economy. Companies are dumping petroleum-based plastic wherever they can.
For example, the Times says, Target has removed the plastic lids from its yogurts, redesigned packages for some light bulbs, and is selling socks held together by paper bands rather than in plastic bags.
Wal-Mart Stores is encouraging suppliers to concentrate laundry detergent so it can be sold in smaller containers.
Home Depot is also dumping the annoying clamshell for some items.
Clamshells are a good tool against theft, but when the price of petroleum shot up, so did the cost of the clamshell. Non-clamshell packaging is lighter, making items less expensive to ship.
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