Regulations on plastic bag uses have surfaced in many parts of the world, as the bag's reduction is almost universally seen as a way to ease the environmental impact it carries. In response to this, many retailers and individuals have opted for the use of synthetic, reusable bags.

However, report by the Tampa Tribune has revealed that many of these reusable bags were found containing lead, a poisonous substance that can damage the human nervous system and causes brain disorders.

The New York Times reports that "concerns have proliferated so much that Senator Charles E. Schumer, a New York Democrat, sent a letter on Sunday to the Food and Drug Administration, urging the agency to investigate the issue."

(Source: Lead found in reusable shopping bags [CBC])