Genre(s): Science Fiction, Satire
4,908 words (20-25 minutes)
Originally published in Galaxy Science Fiction in May, 1958

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Bread Overhead is a sharp, satirical look at corporate excess, technological absurdity, and unintended consequences. In a futuristic world of hyper-industrialized food production, Puffy Products—a major bread manufacturer—unveils a revolutionary new loaf made with helium instead of carbon dioxide. However, a last-minute gas substitution leads to a disaster of skyborne bread loaves drifting uncontrollably across America, throwing the world into chaos. With corporate politics, media frenzy, and even international diplomatic incidents unfolding, the story cleverly critiques consumer culture, advertising gimmicks, and the power of unintended innovation.