Reusable Grocery Tote Safety

Cloth grocery totes are convenient and environmentally friendly, but could they also be making you sick? Bacteria can build up quickly when certain foods spill and aren't cleaned — increasing the risk of food poisoning.

Tips for Using Reusable Tote Bags

For peace of mind, remember the following tips to help keep your reusable bags good for your health as well as the environment.

• At checkout, consider putting meat, poultry and fish in a plastic bag before placing in a tote. If you don't choose to use a plastic bag on these items, it's extra important to keep these foods in a separate bag away from ready-to-eat foods. This will help prevent juices from leaking on and contaminating your other food.
• Once you're home and groceries are unpacked, clean all areas where you placed your totes, such as the kitchen counter or table, to reduce cross-contamination.
• Wash your reusable bag frequently in the washing machine or by hand with hot, soapy water.
• Store totes in a clean, dry location. Avoid leaving totes in the trunk of a vehicle where other debris may contaminate food or where hot temperatures can increase bacteria growth.