"These arrived and are absolutely adorable and perfect for our child's party at the local fire dept.The party isn't until after the holidays, but needed to order/prepare in advance. The way they are packaged makes me think the straws may be bent/broken. Straws are already inserted in cup, bent completely over and cups fit snugly in shipping box with bent portion of straw rubbing against box. My recommendation to manufacturer would be to give you a bundle of 8 unbent straws along with cups. My solution might be to give as favors and not try to have kids upset by leaky straws at party. I might see if I can buy regular bendy straws. I still think they are so cute!"