Listen to the podcast and read the article about the history of the drinking straw.
What is the most surprising thing you have learned about the straw and its history?
The most surprising thing that I heard was about the birth and promotion of a small straw were the results of so many factors coming together. The American public health mania. The soda fountain prevents everyone from drinking soda from a communal water glass. After urbanization, the masses’ paid more attention to sanitation issues. And after financialization, it’s amazing how this little straw can generate so much profit, making big companies want to make more straws to get more profit.
Can you think of any other products that started out life to meet a specific need but evolved to be used by everyone?
Corn Flakes: Created as a health food by the Kellogg brothers to combat digestive problems, corn flakes are now a popular breakfast cereal enjoyed by people of all ages.