The ring-pull pop-top opening drink can was invented in the USA by Ermal Faze, but the throwaway ring-pull design caused a huge litter problem and was also sharp and dangerous.

In 1973 Mike Debenham invented the Presto pop-top can. His push-in drink tab design had two holes, one to let out the pressure inside the can and the other for a straw. The tabs stayed stuck to the can so they did not create litter.

Presto cans were sold all over the world but since then other non-littering can opening designs have been developed that have improved on the original design.

The first Pop Top Can with the throwaway ring-pull was invented by Ermal Fraze, owner of Dayton Reliable Tool and Manufacturing Company. The legend goes that, in the late 1950s, Fraze was at a family picnic and wanted a beer, but had forgotten the can opener. He was forced to employ the bumper of his car to open the beer. In his frustration, Fraze vowed to develop an easy-opening can. The first shipments of the pop top can went to the Iron City brewery, and the public response was enthusiastic.