Back to Plastic? Reusable Cloth Bags Can Make us Sick!

by Susan Davis on 28/05/09 at 9:57 am

Will it be Back to plastic?

For years now, we’ve been asked to “go green” and consider carrying our groceries home in a reusable cloth bag, instead of the cheap, plastic bags that the industry currently offers.  Although some stores may still ask if you prefer “paper or plastic,” many markets don’t give you a choice.  You either take the plastic bags, or buy or bring your own recyclable tote.  In most cases, the reusable bags are made from canvas, and some grocery chains may give you a small discount if you bring your own bag.

Although the reusable totes may be better for the environment, a new study by Sporometrics, an environmental microbiology lab based in Toronto, Canada, found that these cloth shopping bags, when used repeatedly without laundering, can contain high levels of bacteria, yeast, mold and coliform counts, which pose a significant food safety risk.

“The moist, dark, warm interior of a folded reusable bag that has acquired a small amount of water and a trace of food contamination is an ideal incubator for bacteria,” the report said. Researchers were also concerned about dual-use bags, which consumers might carry athletic equipment or diapers in, and then be used to transport food.

So does this mean we should now go back to plastic bags, because they may be healthier for humans?   The choice is up to you.  In the meantime, consumers are asked to be cautious when using a canvas or cloth bag for groceries, and are urged to launder it at least once a week, and let it dry inside out.

The Full Report on Plastic Grocery Bags