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Report: High Lead Levels Found in Reusable Grocery Bags

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer of New York is seeking a federal investigation following a newspaper report of lead content in some reusable grocery bags.

 

The Democrat tells The Associated Press that many of the reusable grocery bags sold nationwide are manufactured in China. Schumer says he's contacting the Food and Drug Administration, the Environmental Protection Agency and the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Reporter Richard Mullins of the Tampa Tribune tells KNX 1070 that a recent investigation found some bags had lead levels that concerned health officials.

There is less concern the lead would easily rub off on food when the bags are new, but there are fears that as bags wear down, lead could accumulate in landfills, creating a potential environmental hazard.

(TM and © Copyright 2010 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2010 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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