Reusable plastic bottles and shopping bags can harbor bacteria, experts warn in Croatia

Health experts say single‑use PET water bottles are not meant for repeated use. Each opening, squeezing and refilling creates microscopic scratches where bacteria can grow, especially in warm summer conditions. If the bottle is not thoroughly washed with warm water and detergent, oral bacteria can multiply, and residues from sugary drinks accelerate this process. The bottle should be replaced when it shows dents, discoloration or odor, and consumers are encouraged to switch to durable containers such as stainless‑steel or BPA‑free reusable bottles.

A similar risk applies to reusable shopping bags. Surveys found coliform bacteria in about half of the bags tested, with E. coli present in 8% and other pathogens such as listeria also detected. Unwashed bags can transfer microbes from the store to kitchen surfaces and onto raw food. Experts recommend washing bags after each use—especially after handling raw meat, poultry or seafood—using a washing machine for fabric bags or hot water and soap for synthetic ones, and ensuring they are fully dried before reuse.