14 DAY TRIAL // Once we decide the little we can do to give our planet a second chance is switching from plastic to reusable shopping bags, the first step of ‘going green’ is completed. However, according to a recently released study, not many of us ‘go green’ the right way.
Specifically, most consumers never wash their reusable bags between uses, permitting bacteria to grow. The study found that coliform bacteria only were found in half of those tested, while eight percent of bags contained E. coli.
The study was conducted by University of Arizona Microbiologist Dr. Charles Gerba in early summer of 2010, randomly testing 87 such bags obtained from grocery shoppers in California and Arizona.
"I was surprised to learn through this study that only three percent of shoppers surveyed actually said they washed their reusable bags between uses. More surprising were the numbers of people who stated they used the bags not only for food shopping, but also to transport clothing and other products to and from work and the gym," said Dr. Gerba.
"There has been a growing movement to use reusable bags when we shop, but without proper washing, these bags can expose our families to bacteria that can cause illness," he added,
When remnants of meats and dairy products were added to bags and stored in the trunks of cars for two hours, the number of bacteria increased 10-fold, indicating the potential for bacterial growth in the bags.
Hand or machine washing was found to reduce the bacteria in bags by more than 99.9%. These results indicate that reusable bags, if not properly washed on a regular basis, can play a role in the cross-contamination of foods.
"Washing bags is the only way to protect your family. It will remove 99.9 percent of germs. Although it may be a nuisance, washing must be done to ensure your food is safe to eat," added Gerba. "I'd recommend washing it with hot, soapy water after each use." Dr. Gerba added, "If you choose to use a reusable bag for grocery shopping, it's important to keep your meats in separate plastic bags, use separate reusable bags for food items, and wash them between uses."