"A World of Ideas from Saran Wrap," 1970

Saran Wrap, introduced in 1953, came from the research and development that created many plastics during World War II. Its strength and tight clinginess--and ability to keep food fresher longer--made it popular with consumers. Though convenient and inexpensive, plastic wrap is made from chemicals that are potentially harmful as they break down. Plastic wrap is hard to recycle, contributing to the plastic pollution crisis.