Reusable Bags Fail to Meet Canadian Standards in Marketplace Investigation

In September 2025, a Marketplace investigation revealed that many reusable grocery bags sold in Canadian stores are failing to meet the government's durability standards. The Canadian government currently defines reusable bags as those that can withstand 100 trips of 53 meters each while carrying 10 kilograms, without breaking or tearing. However, this regulation is currently on hold as the plastics industry challenges it in court.

Marketplace put this standard to the test, purchasing bags from major retailers like Sobeys, Real Canadian Superstore, Dollarama, Walmart, and Metro. They also included a single-use plastic bag for comparison. Student athletes were tasked with unpacking and repacking the 10-kilogram grocery load every 53 meters on a running track in Whitby, Ontario. The results were concerning - 7 out of the 12 bags failed the test, including the single-use plastic bag.

The thinner cloth reusable bags performed the worst, with one from Sobeys tearing after just 5 trips. Even some of the sturdier-looking options, like a large double-handle bag from Walmart and a water-resistant bag from Sobeys, also tore before reaching 100 trips. In contrast, a cotton tote bag from Dollarama lasted all 100 trips without any signs of damage.

Karen Wirsig from the advocacy group Environmental Defence expressed concern that companies may be trying to "find things that might fit under some legal definition" to continue selling plastic or plastic-like products that end up as waste and litter. The government has so far refused to take action, citing the ongoing legal battle.

Experts advise that the best approach is to reuse the bags you already own, as the environmental impact of manufacturing and shipping new reusable bags can outweigh the benefits. They also suggest more circular solutions, such as reusing shipping boxes from grocers or creating free reusable bag programs, to address the issue.