Reusable shopping bags are eco-friendly, but experts emphasize the importance of hygiene to avoid health risks like food poisoning.
Many shoppers place raw meat and soil-covered vegetables directly in their bags. Even with extra packaging, bacteria can spread to other items. A bacteriologist at the University of Aberdeen recommends discarding any bag that has carried raw meat to prevent contamination.
Two expert tips:
– Keep raw meat separated from ready-to-eat unpackaged produce, like fruit.
– Opt for machine-washable reusable bags. Note that washing doesn't eliminate all bacteria, so replace them periodically for safety.
Shockingly, 97% of people never wash their reusable bags. Does yours need attention?
Source: Goedgeest.be | Image: Shutterstock
