Stupid question of the day

Is it just late or is there really no obvious answer to this question: why are food containers round more often than they are square or rectangular? Square containers are so much easier to store in the fridge than round ones.

Round pots and pans I understand -- a round shape distributes heat evenly but that isn't an explanation for containers. Are round containers easier to make than square ones?

Comments

[Gavri Fernandez]

I like round containers in the fridge. You know, when you have to put in a new one, you just _push_ it in and the other cans make space and move away :)

[Murli]

Yeah, I guess that works. Or maybe it's just a question of aesthetics -- are round containers more pretty than square ones?

Or actually, now that I think about it, it's easier to scoop food out of round containers than square ones.. no pesky corners and angles where my spoon can't probe. (This is the point at which you call me a greedy glutton.)

BTW, I like your blog. Even though it has a Dear Diary feel to it, it's not gawdawfully boring and self-involved like the hordes of Dear Diary blogs out there. You have a nice writing style.

[Ravi]

I think it is a simple matter of manufacturing process. Rectangular boxes will need welding joints with the risk of breaking off sometime in the future.
In fact if you look at a tin, you will notice that the bottom which is attached to the sides, is the weak spot. If you want to open it without a can opener, bang the joint on the floor and then rip it open with a screwdriver!