[tengbretson]

Its a third option: At some point someone decided to package an existing product that was not usually packaged in plastic, in plastic. Consumers decided the new way of packaging was superior and everyone adopted it to keep up.

[DangitBobby]

I have to disagree that all changes in the details of product disbursement originate from an increased benefit to consumers (rather to to benefit producers as your comment implies), but I cant deny that there are substantial benefits on both sides once you ignore the externalities. Regardless, it is practically impossible to avoid buying most goods without at least a small amount of plastic packaging, so even if the masses were capable of organizing to effect change regarding packaging, someone has to recognize a market for it and change practices accordingly.