The era of freely available plastic bags is slowly coming to a close, with many stores now charging customers for each plastic bag they require.
But as we navigate this transition, questions arise regarding the potential for reusing these bags.
Can we extend the life of a single plastic bag beyond a one-time use? And what considerations should we bear in mind when doing so?
In our quest for answers, we turned to Sam Scoten, the visionary CEO behind CheckSammy, a company dedicated to bulk waste management and sustainability practices, as well as Dr. Bryan Quoc Le, a distinguished food scientist and engineer. Spearheading the discourse on the reuse of plastic bags, Scoten and Le shed light on the dos and don’ts of this eco-friendly practice.
When it comes to reusing plastic bags, Scoten emphasizes the importance of caution. Bags that have come into contact with raw meats and their juices should be disposed of immediately to prevent potential bacterial growth or food cross-contamination. While sanitizing these bags is an option, Scoten rightfully points out that the effort involved might outweigh the benefits.
In contrast, Le, the acclaimed author of "150 Food Science Questions Answered," advises exercising caution by recommending the disposal of plastic bags once they are soiled or contaminated. He emphasizes, "As plastic bags are intended for single use, it's safest to dispose of them when they become dirty or contaminated with any substance."
As a rule of thumb, Scoten advises regular washing of reused bags, whether they are single-use plastic bags or reusable grocery totes. However, both experts caution against reusing bags that have come in contact with allergens like peanuts or shellfish to prevent potential health risks.
To extend the life of plastic bags, Scoten recommends washing reusable grocery bags in warm, soapy water, and allowing them to air dry completely post-cleaning. Le highlights the importance of not reusing bags that have been exposed to prolonged periods of heat, such as those left in hot cars, as this can compromise the integrity of the plastic and lead to potential contamination issues.
As we reimagine our connection to plastic bags, it’s crucial to listen to the guidance of experts who emphasize making thoughtful decisions. By considering their insights, we can prioritize sustainability, reduce environmental impact, and ensure food safety in every choice we make.
Adopting alternative solutions that align with eco-friendly practices will not only benefit the planet but also contribute to a healthier and safer future for all. Let’s make a conscious effort to embrace alternatives that support both our well-being and the health of our environment!
How to Recycle Plastic Bags and Wrapping
Video by Recycle Now