Meaning
The thin black plastic shopping bag that every shop and vendor hands out — an everyday Jamaican icon. Its playful name comes from its use to discreetly hide what you've bought (a 'scandal' you don't want seen), whether liquor, a snack, or something private. 'Put it inna scandal bag' means bag it up out of sight.
Examples
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Put di rum inna scandal bag so nobody see.
Put the rum in a black bag so nobody sees.
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Di shopkeeper pack it inna scandal bag.
The shopkeeper packed it in a black plastic bag.
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Mi carry mi lunch inna a scandal bag.
I carry my lunch in a black plastic bag.
Origin
Named for hiding a 'scandal' (something you'd rather not be seen buying) in the opaque black plastic bag; a beloved everyday Jamaican-ism.
How it’s used
The ubiquitous thin black shopping bag; named for discreetly hiding purchases. Compare 'crocus bag' (burlap sack).