The 90s Obsession With Transparent Technology

One of the most memorable fads of the 90s was the obsession with transparent technology. From Crystal Pepsi and Game Boys to transparent TVs and pagers, it seemed like everything had to be see-through to be cool.

But why were we so obsessed with transparent technology in the first place? And what does it say about our relationship with food and technology throughout history?

To understand the trend, it's helpful to look back at the history of transparent food packaging. The idea of packaging food in transparent materials dates back to the early 20th century, when manufacturers began using glass jars and bottles to showcase their products. This allowed consumers to see exactly what they were buying and gave them a sense of trust in the product.

Over time, manufacturers began experimenting with other materials like plastic and cellophane, which were cheaper and easier to produce in large quantities. By the 1960s, transparent packaging had become the norm for many types of food products, from cereal to snacks to beverages.

Fast forward to the 90s, and the transparent trend had jumped from food packaging to technology. In many ways, it was a natural progression. Just like transparent packaging gave consumers a sense of trust in their food products, transparent technology gave us a sense of transparency and control over the gadgets that were becoming such a big part of our lives.

Crystal Pepsi was one of the most iconic examples of the transparent trend. Introduced in 1992, it was a clear, caffeine-free version of Pepsi that was marketed as a "bold, refreshing, crystal-clear cola." The idea was that consumers could see exactly what they were drinking and feel good about the purity of the product.

Game Boys and transparent TVs followed suit, allowing us to see the inner workings of our favorite gadgets and giving us a sense of control over our technology. Pagers were another popular item to get the transparent treatment, allowing us to see the electronic components that made them work.

Of course, like all trends, the transparent fad eventually faded away. By the early 2000s, we were more interested in sleek, minimalist designs and bright, bold colors than we were in transparency. But the trend still holds an important place in the history of food and technology.

Looking back, it's clear that our obsession with transparency was about more than just aesthetics. It was a reflection of our desire for control and understanding over the products we consume. And while transparent technology may no longer be in vogue, that desire for transparency and trust in our products is still as important as ever.