It seems like only yesterday that the Internet was blowing up over the infamous Tide Pod Challenge. The youth of America decided for reasons unknown to the common man that the pods of Tide detergent, conveniently accessible for easy laundry, resembled delicious candy. People began posting videos of themselves eating the pods, and the consequences were anything but funny. According to the Washington Post, U.S. poison control centers received reports of more than 10,500 children younger than 5 who were exposed to the capsules last year, and so far in 2018, there have been 37 reported cases among teenagers. YouTube had to release a statement that they were taking down the videos, as did the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to parents several years ago about the liquid laundry detergent packets. Apparently, this commotion wasn’t enough to teach Tide not to make their detergent so appetizing.
Slap the Bag?
It’s no secret that party-goers across the country love a good wine bag. Whether pouring out a cheap one in the comfort of your own home or slapping the bag at a club, boxed wine is known as the perfect affordable beverage—well, known to everyone except for the people working at Tide. Last week, Procter & Gamble released the new “Tide Eco-Box,” complete with a twist-to-pour feature for the detergent, a pull-out stand, and a measuring cup. So, basically, boxed wine.
Why though?
The intentions behind this potentially ill-advised move are pure. According to CNN, The Eco-Box uses 60% less plastic than shipping an equivalent 150 ounce bottle of Tide since it doesn’t require additional layers of cardboard boxing or bubble wrap. The new box also makes it easier to ship the beloved detergent to loyal Tide customers. The product is lighter and takes up less space in a delivery truck than the classic bottle, which will save P&G a lot of money on shipping costs.
Let the Memes Commence
Understandably, the Internet is losing its mind over this new product. The general consensus is that this is most definitely not the smart way to follow up the Pod Crisis of 2017.
Only time will tell if this new product will be the eco-friendly answer to laundry lovers prayers or a brand new dangerous headache for Tide. Whatever you’re drinking this weekend, please don’t let it be your detergent.