Reusable Bags Contain Lead: Report

SN STAFF

LAKELAND, Fla. — Publix Super Markets here said it would work with suppliers of its reusable grocery bags on safer options after a local news report found elevated levels of lead in some bags.

An investigation by the Tampa Tribune newspaper also found high lead levels in some bags distributed by Publix’s Jacksonville, Fla.-based rival, Winn-Dixie Stores. Both retailers in response said their bags comply with federal standards but said they would refund customers who were concerned about the bags’ lead content.

Wegmans Food Markets, Rochester, N.Y., recently exchanged thousands of its reusable bags on similar concerns.

The Tribune report indicated its tests of the bags showed levels of lead that “concerned health officials.”