One million reusable commissary shopping bags Published June 9, 2008 By Lynda Valentine FORT LEE, Va. -- It's official. Commissary customers have purchased more than one million reusable shopping bags sold at commissaries worldwide. "Our customers' demand for these bags validated our decision to offer an alternative to plastic or paper," said Agency Acting Director Rick Page. "It also encourages us to continue seeking out additional ways to preserve the Earth's natural resources under our Go Green initiatives." The popular green bags, which were introduced last October, cost 70 cents each, are made of sturdy mesh and are strong enough to hold up to 30 pounds of groceries. The bags are machine washable and can be recycled when no longer usable. In addition to the reusable bags sold at commissaries, you have other options when shopping at your commissary. Use your own reusable bags or bring clean, sturdy paper or plastic bags to the commissary for reuse in bagging your groceries. All recycled paper or plastic bags brought into the commissary for use must be clean and undamaged and can only be used for your purchases. Whichever option you choose, just present your bags to your bagger when you reach the cashier. To purchase the reusable bag, look for the bag racks at your commissary or ask your cashier for them at checkout. For more information, visit DeCA's Web site at http://www.commissaries.com. About DeCA: The Defense Commissary Agency operates a worldwide chain of commissaries providing groceries to military personnel, retirees and their families in a safe and secure shopping environment. Authorized patrons purchase items at cost plus a 5-percent surcharge, which covers the costs of building new commissaries and modernizing existing ones. Shoppers save an average of more than 30 percent on their purchases compared to commercial prices - savings worth about $3,000 annually for a family of four. A core military family support element, and a valued part of military pay and benefits, commissaries contribute to family readiness, enhance the quality of life for America's military and their families, and help recruit and retain the best and brightest men and women to serve their country.