Food Storage 101: All about Reusing Plastic Bags
Should Plastic Bags Be Reused for Groceries?: Insights from Food Safety Specialists
Plastic food storage bags are a staple in many kitchens, used for everything from packing lunches to storing leftovers. But should you be reusing these bags after every use, or are they meant to be disposable? We dive into the debate, getting the lowdown from food safety experts on when you can reuse plastic bags and when it's best to let them go.
So, Can You Reuse Plastic Bags?
Plastic bags aren't designed for multiple uses. However, there may be times when it's safe to reuse them. Sandra Eskin, CEO of Stop Foodborne Illness, lays it all out: "If the bag was used to store dry, non-greasy foods like bread or crackers, it may be reused. But if it held raw meat, fish, poultry, eggs, or dairy, bacteria can linger, even after washing."
Reusing bags too frequently can be risky, as they may develop cracks, which bacteria can settle into. Jessica Gavin, a certified food scientist, suggests opting for glass food storage containers or reusable bags to minimize the risk of foodborne illness.
Cleaning Plastic Bags
Even when they're used to store dry goods, it's essential to wash and dry plastic bags between uses. Food particles and bacteria can sometimes remain, and you wouldn't want to transfer them to your next batch of snacks. Gently clean them with soap and warm water, but avoid being too rough, as that could cause holes or tears.
Making Plastic Bags Last
Plastic bags don't have a long life expectancy, but with some care, you can get a few more uses out of them. Store them away from heat and moisture to prevent degradation, and make sure they're dry before reusing. Also, wash your hands before snacking on reusable bags to minimize the risk of contamination.
When to Say Goodbye to Your Plastic Bags
If you want to adhere to the stricter side, toss the bag after every use. According to food scientist Bryan Quoc Le, "Microbes can grow inside plastic bags if extra moisture is introduced, even if you wash the bags." Discard bags that have previously stored animal products, show signs of damage, or have an unknown cloudiness that could be mold or mildew.
Alternatives for Safer and Sustainable Storage
For safer and more environmentally-friendly food storage, consider using silicone or reusable bags made from materials like cotton or polyester. You can wash these bags in hot water or even the dishwasher, making them a hygienic and eco-friendly choice.
In conclusion, while plastic bags can be reused under strict hygiene conditions, it's crucial to prioritize cleanliness and avoid using bags that have held risky foods or show signs of damage. opting for reusable or sustainable alternatives can be a better choice for your health and the planet.
- Although plastic bags may be reused for storing dry goods like bread or crackers, they should not be used for foods like raw meat, fish, poultry, eggs, or dairy due to lingering bacteria.
- To minimize the risk of foodborne illness, it's best to clean and dry plastic bags between uses, avoiding rough handling that could cause holes or tears.
- Storage of plastic bags away from heat and moisture can help them last longer, but they should be discarded after using for animal products, showing signs of damage, or having an unknown cloudiness that could be mold or mildew.
- For safer and more sustainable food storage, using silicone or reusable bags made from materials like cotton or polyester is highly recommended, as these can be washed in hot water or the dishwasher.
- According to food scientist Bryan Quoc Le, microbes can grow inside plastic bags if extra moisture is introduced, making it safer to adhere to a stricter policy of discarding plastic bags after every use for the sake of health and the environment.
