New Zealand becomes first country to ban single-use produce bags at grocery stores

New Zealand's produce bag ban will also include recyclable, biodegradable or plant-based plastic. (Rob Carr/Getty Images)

Customers in New Zealand already are expected to bring their own shopping bags to grocery stores. Now they also will be asked to carry their own reusable bags for fruits and vegetables.

New Zealand is considered the first country in the world to ban single-use produce bags at supermarkets. The measure officially went into effect on July 1.