A grocery shopper took a photo of the customer in front of them who put every different kind of fruit or vegetable in a separate plastic bag.
Redditors had a lot to say in the comments about how many bags were used and the standard way we buy fruit and vegetables from a grocery store.
The image posted on the r/Anticonsumption subreddit looks to be of tomatoes, peppers, bananas, lettuce, and more, all wrapped in plastic. There are at least nine separate plastic bags.
The Redditor noted that the plums, already in a plastic container, were also put in a plastic bag.
The original poster said: "Are all the bags necessary though?"
The user also noted that they use reusable bags for their fruit and vegetables.
Stay hydrated and refreshed this holiday season — without any sugar or harmful additives Nuun’s zero-sugar hydration tablets are a perfect, guilt-free way to enhance your water throughout the day. You’ll get five essential electrolytes for everyday hydration — with zero grams of sugar. Plus, Nuun tablets are certified vegan and gluten-free, and they’re the perfect size to keep in your car, purse, or anywhere you'll want a healthy, restorative drink. Learn more → |
The number of bags used is alarming because, according to the Center for Biological Diversity, "it takes 1,000 years for a plastic bag to degrade in a landfill." Then, the plastic breaks down and becomes microplastics, which absorb toxins and pollute the environment.
In addition, the plastic used in bags contains chemicals associated with health issues, such as birth defects, immune system suppression, and cancers. These effects can be seen in humans and wildlife.
What's more, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development predicts that plastic waste will nearly triple by 2060 — making the situation even worse.
🗣️ Should plastic grocery bags be banned nationwide?
🔘 Absolutely 👍
🔘 No way 👎
🔘 Let each state decide 🤔
🔘 I'm not sure 🤷
🗳️ Click your choice to see results and speak your mind
Putting your fruit and vegetables in single-use plastic has been a custom for years. It's how the cashier weighs and rings up the items at the store. One Redditor in the comments noted how using reusable bags costs more money when the items are being weighed. Many users commented on how plastic protects food from dirty conveyor belts.
There's a reason dermatologists personally use this daily moisturizing sunscreen more than any other brand Dermatologists see and understand skin at a much deeper level than the rest of us, and they know that the perfect SPF both protects and corrects your skin. That's why they trust, recommend, and personally use EltaMD more than any other brand. EltaMD's clinically tested formulas are designed with dermatologists to meet the needs of any skin type or condition. They're also designed for consistent daily wear to build long-term resilience with a moisturizing, lightweight, non-comedogenic texture — plus hyaluronic acid to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Learn more → |
While there are many reasons for using these plastic bags for produce, there are changes you can make. You can use less plastic in general. Find light reusable bags that won't cost you more for the produce. You can also use containers that are not plastic. In addition, ditch those single-use coffee mugs and water bottles.
One Redditor said: "Bananas, onions, grapes, and other produce that's already in its own bag really don't need to be bagged."
Another added: "I really dont care if it touches and just put the items on the conveyor belt without bags. Or use a reusable bag. This is so annoying."
One shopper likes to upcycle the bags: "I reuse those bags."
Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Cool Picks
