Shoppers relying on the convenience of paper bags at Australian supermarkets may have noticed a recent issue with breakability, leading to frustration at the checkout.

But what exactly went wrong? Woolworths has acknowledged a flaw with their bags sold in select states, revealing some interesting details about the problem and its resolution.

Here’s what you need to know.

Shoppers in NSW, Victoria, and Queensland had been complaining about the fragility of the 25c paper bags at Woolworths checkouts.

Woolworths confirmed there had been a problem with the handles of these bags, which was caused by a 'small change in the manufacturing process.'

The supermarket chain assured the public that the issue had already been addressed, although affected bags might still be on shelves in east coast stores.

Woolworths admits paper bag flaw in select states. Image source: Dallas Kiolponen/Woolworths

'New batches of paper bags will arrive in stores over the coming weeks,' Woolworths added.

The company previously stated that its paper bags were tested to hold up to 6kg of shopping.

According to Australian Consumer Law, customers are entitled to a refund or replacement for any faulty product.

'If a customer experiences an issue with their bag, we encourage them to speak with our store team members or reach out to our customer service online assistance,' Woolworths said.

Aside from the paper bags, Woolworths also offers other sustainable reusable bag options for sale.

To see a lighthearted take on the paper bag issue, check out this quick video.

You won’t want to miss it–watch now!

Source: Youtube/CON19723​

Here’s another one.

Source: Youtube/M Hunt

In a previous story, we covered a similar issue that’s been causing confusion and frustration for shoppers.

If you’re still puzzled about the ongoing concerns with supermarket bags, this follow-up will provide some clarity.

Be sure to read on for more details.

Key Takeaways

• Woolworths acknowledged a flaw with the handles of paper bags sold in NSW, Victoria, and Queensland.
• The issue was caused by a 'small change in the manufacturing process.'
• Affected bags might still be available in stores, but new batches will arrive soon.
• Customers are entitled to a refund or replacement for faulty bags.

With the issue now addressed, do you think this will affect your choice of shopping bags in the future?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

 

[Observer]

If the paper bags are breaking by the time you get back to the car or getting home, I would be hoping that any broken items would be replaced should the bag give way due to faulty workmanship.

 

[Kahlan28]

Bring your own bags, it's cheaper and you know they won't break. Easy

 

[saundy]

Why can't they pack the groceries in cardboard boxes like happened years ago, I can remember when I was a kid the groceries were always packed in a cardboard box you can't get any better or greener than this the paper bags are totally useless the plastic bags are not much better.
I have my own I purchased some heavy plastic bags made for multiple uses, problem solved.
Think about it. It's like the old saying " You first loss is your best loss"
They are are ready available online and in various shops, not hard to find.

Give some thought to purchasing a few goods multi use shopping bags, think how much those disposable bags cost you, You will be shocked if you have been keep using single use bags.