Reusable bags are commonly used for grocery shopping at a chain grocery store or the farmer’s market because they are sturdy and allow for carrying heavier loads, save money for users who live in areas where there is a fee for using plastic or paper bags, come in different designs and are made from different fabrics like canvas, nylon, among others, which allow the user creative expression, and are an environmentally friendly alternative to single-use plastic bags. This factsheet explores the food safety concerns about reuseable grocery bags.

Washing produce is an important step to keeping your family healthy. Since produce is grown in close contact with the ground, bacterial contamination may be introduced from animals, soil, and water. Produce may also be handled as it moves through the supply chain to the consumer. Washing produce can remove potential bacterial contamination or soil. It can be hard to know how and when to wash your produce, and there is a lot of information out there, so this publication provides important considerations to think about (a guide to help).