Plastic shopping bags are now an essential part of shopping experience worldwide, including Canada. But in spite of plastic bags and the growing awareness among people about the harmful impacts of single-use plastics on the environment, these grocery bags still perform different roles across retail establishments. They are handy and flexible; as they transport groceries to storing household materials. In terms of environmental sustainability, which has become an important topic in Canada, ones should know how many sizes do plastic grocery bags come in that can help in determining their place within daily life.
What Size are Plastic Grocery Bags?
Plastic grocery bags come in various sizes to accommodate different shopping needs. The most common size is the standard-sized bag 12″ W x 6″ D x 22, which is large enough to hold a significant amount of groceries for the average household.
10″ x 6″ x 21″
11″ x 6.5″ x 21.5″
12″ x 6″ x 21″
12″ x 6″ x 22″
12″ x 7″ x 22″
12″ x 7″ x 17″
12.5″ x 8.5″ x 13″
Consequently, for customers with fewer purchases or those who may want to separate their groceries into different categories smaller as well as medium-sized containers were made available. Some small bags are often used for delicate perishable or wet products like fruits and vegetables.
Specialty bags like insulated for frozen items or having reinforced handles meet certain requirements. Additionally, there are produce sacks specifically meant for weighing and packing loose fruits and veggies. Even though these types may vary in size but all stand for convenience for customers when doing shopping at groceries.
Standard Size Grocery Bags:
The most common plastic grocery bags found in Canadian supermarkets are the standard size ones. These bags are typically large enough to accommodate a week’s worth of groceries for an average-sized family. They are designed to be sturdy and reliable, capable of carrying heavier items without tearing. The convenience of these bags makes them popular among shoppers for transporting groceries from the store to their homes.
Small and Medium Size Bags:
In addition to standard-sized bags, many retailers offer smaller and medium-sized plastic bags. These bags are ideal for customers who purchase fewer items or for organizing and separating different categories of groceries. For instance, small bags may be used to contain delicate or leaky items like fruits, vegetables, or meat, while medium-sized bags can hold canned goods or boxed items.
Produce Bags:
A common sight in Canadian grocery stores is the thin, transparent plastic bags used for weighing and packaging loose produce items such as fruits and vegetables. While these produce bags are smaller in size compared to standard grocery bags, they play a crucial role in maintaining hygiene and preventing cross-contamination. Despite their disposable nature, efforts are underway to replace these bags with more sustainable alternatives like compostable or reusable produce bags.
Specialty Bags:
Some retailers in Canada offer specialty plastic bags designed for specific purposes. These may include insulated bags for transporting frozen or refrigerated items, as well as bags with reinforced handles for added durability. Specialty bags cater to the diverse needs of shoppers and provide solutions for transporting goods safely and conveniently.
Reusable Bags:
While not technically single-use, reusable plastic bags are also prevalent in Canadian grocery stores. These bags are typically made from thicker, more durable plastic and are designed to withstand multiple uses. Many retailers offer incentives to encourage customers to bring their reusable bags, contributing to efforts to reduce plastic waste.
The purpose of plastic grocery bags in Canada extends beyond mere transportation of goods. They play a significant role in ensuring food safety, organization, and convenience for shoppers. However, it’s essential to acknowledge the environmental impact associated with single-use plastics. Efforts are being made across the country to promote the use of reusable bags, implement plastic bag bans or fees, and explore alternative packaging solutions to reduce plastic waste.
Where to Buy Plastic Grocery Bags in Canada?
Bulk order from Ideal Packaging and Supplies, leading plastic grocery bags manufacturer in Canada. Get a free quote here. Alternately plastic grocery bags are typically available for purchase at supermarkets, grocery stores, and convenience stores across Canada.
While plastic grocery bags continue to be used in Canada, there is a growing awareness of the need to adopt more sustainable practices. Understanding the different sizes and purposes of plastic bags can help consumers make informed choices and contribute to the environmental impact of single-use plastics.
