As the debate around the country heats up regarding plastic vs. reusable bags, some sources are trying to cast doubt on the reusable bag industry by saying that reused bags can carry bacteria. However, experts are quick to point out that we can easily avoid that health threat, simply by keeping our reusable bags clean.
Obviously, if you are shopping for items like meat or produce, you will want to take some extra precautionary measures to help keep the bags clean. If you have selected an item that is dripping or exposed, you can either use the small plastic bags provided in the meat and produce department or choose one that is not dripping.
Having bags dedicated and labeled only for use with things like meat, produce and other items will also help avoid cross-contamination.
Reusable bags will get soiled, just like anything else we use. Our kitchens are filled with hand towels, dish towels and other items that we use on a regular basis. These items end up with the same germs that reusable bags can acquire. Yet we don’t stop using them; instead, we simply take measures to keep them clean by washing them regularly.
The same thing goes for our reusable bags. You should plan to wash them regularly, especially after you have used them for meat or produce items. Properly washing your reusable bags will help eliminate any germs that might lead to food poisoning. Also, between uses, pay attention to where and how you store your reusable bags. You wouldn’t throw your clean dish towels in a pile on the floor, so you should avoid doing that with your bags.
An easy way to store them is to put all the reusable bags you have inside one outer bag, so they are all together, and then put them in a cupboard or closet until you head out to the store. (And remember that washing your bags in cold water is more environmentally friendly.)
Reusable bags may collect germs, but we need to keep in mind that the plastic ones do, as well. And we would be hard pressed to find people who wash those out before reusing them for their lunch, gym clothes, or other items.
Reusable Shopping Bags 