New Green Gadget

Green Shopping Bags Need a Good Wash

The popularity of green shopping bags made of recycled plastic materials or cloth has impacted the big discount stores and mom and pop shops alike.  Nowadays more and more shoppers are coming to shop with their own bags in an effort to reduce plastic consumption and eventually waste.

Many crafters have developed eco- friendly shopping bag products from canvas materials, quilting techniques or simply sewing unique bags that are easy to pack up and take wherever you go.  I keep several in the trunk of my car, just in case.

However, along with the new habits (like remembering to take them out of the trunk when you go the grocery store!), comes new responsibilities.  We have to wash the bags to keep them safe for use – and limit the ones we use for groceries to just that, food.

Research Findings

According to the findings of  “A Microbiological Study of Reusable Grocery Bags,” the first study of it’s kind in North America, unacceptably high levels of bacteria, mold, yeast and coliform were found in significant amounts. in the reusable bags.

The most significant problem is the risk of food poisoning, says Dr. Richard Summerbell, Director of Research at Toronto-based Sporometrics and former Chief of Medical Mycology for the Ontario Ministry of Health. Other concerns mentioned were allergic reactions to the substances, such as asthema.

 Here are some shopping bags tips to keep the earth green, and you – not so green! 

1. Always shop with food bags only when going to the grocery store.  Don’t mix and mingle with dirty clothes bags, dry cleaning and pet cleaning supplies.
2. Wash your bags – once a week or at least once a month.
3. Be sure your meat products are packaged in a separate plastic bag before going into your shopping bag.
4. Remember the produce may be quite dirty.  Keep a separate bag(s) for produce, and wash it more often.
5. Be sure to wash your produce before using.
6. Don’t store your bags in humid warm areas.  Keep them dark and dry…or in the hot bright sunlight for time.
7. Don’t purchase reusable shopping bags you can’t launder.
8. When you do use the plastic bags, ie. you forget your green bags, reuse them for dirty clothes, pet supplies, diapers, and dog do-little’s.

Once you get used to the idea of bringing your own bags with you, it becomes second nature.  Going green in your day-to-day life takes a little education and focus on developing new habits.  Not unlike your nasty habits though, it doesn’t take long and your new behaviors seems normal. 

Of course your comments are always welcome.  We feature keyword luv, comment luv and do follow.