Your Reusable Bag Could Be Contaminating Your Food

These days, reusable bags are everywhere. They have become a sign that you care about the environment and want to cut down on plastic waste.

Many people keep a stack of them by the door or in the car to grab when shopping.

But what you might not think about is how dirty these bags can get over time. If you don’t clean them often, they can end up doing more harm than good, writes El Economista.

Can Contain Bacterias and Mold

Food engineer Mariana Zapién warns that reusable bags can carry germs that stick around much longer than you expect.

She says this is not something people should ignore. Even if the bags look clean on the outside, they can still hold bacteria, yeast, or mold for days or weeks.

Some of these germs are pretty dangerous. Salmonella and Listeria are two examples. Both can make you very sick if they get into your food.

This happens because we often toss raw meat, fresh produce, and packaged meals into the same bags.

Sometimes we don’t even notice if a little juice leaks out. If you then leave the bag in a warm car trunk, it creates the perfect place for bacteria to grow fast.

How to Keep a Reusable Bag the Right Way

Zapién does not say people should stop using reusable bags. She just believes it is important to use them the right way.

Her advice is simple and easy to follow. She recommends using different bags for different types of food.

Keep one for raw meat, another for fruits and vegetables, and a separate one for bread or ready-to-eat items.

She also says you should never mix these bags with other things, like shoes or sweaty clothes.

After each use, try not to drop the bags on the floor or dirty surfaces. Wash them in hot water with soap at least once a week.

If you notice any spills or stains, clean them right away. Always let them dry completely before putting them away. This helps stop germs from growing inside.

With a little care, your bags can stay clean and safe to use.