Where to Dispose of Fats, Oils and Grease: A Detailed Guide

Running a commercial kitchen requires expertise in diverse areas, from food preparation and hygiene best practice to people management and waste disposal compliance.

In this blog, we’re focusing on the latter and looking to understand where to dispose of fats, oils and grease (FOG) without breaking the law. Improper FOG disposal can cause many issues, from costly blockages in your pipes and the local sewer to attracting pests and landing you with large fines.

The experts at Aqua Mundus will take you through the best ways to correctly dispose of your grease waste, while also answering common FOG questions such as ‘Where can I pour grease?’ to help you keep your kitchen running smoothly.

The incorrect approach to FOG disposal can lead to the fats, oils and grease used in your kitchen solidifying in your pipes, causing major blockages. FOG that isn’t intercepted on your wastewater lines can reach the sewer where major blockages can cause overflows and environmental damage.

Blocked drains and sewers cause knock-on effects, including bad odours and unsanitary conditions, which attract pests and can act as a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. This creates significant hygiene challenges in and around your business.

If fats, oils and grease enter local watercourses, they cause significant damage to local ecosystems and harm aquatic life. The polluting of streams, rivers and oceans can be avoided with responsible and legally compliant FOG disposal.

Proactive maintenance is cost-effective. Clogged pipes, floods and blocked sewers all require expensive repairs and cause downtime for your kitchen, costing you even more. If the water company traces sewer issues back to your non-compliance, fines and even prosecution can follow.

Accumulated grease and waste will release foul odours that can disrupt kitchen operations, put off your customers and tarnish your reputation. Proper disposal eliminates these unpleasant smells and reduces contamination risks, keeping your business clean, professional and hygienic.

It’s important to remember that FOG can get into your pipes via the wastewater lines from pot wash sinks, dishwashers and other wash stations in your kitchen. To separate and capture the FOG, you’ll need a grease trap, a device that captures fats, oils and grease without impeding the flow of wastewater to the sewer.

Grease traps have a long history, and there are various grease trap models available to suit a range of different kitchens.

A grease trap or similar grease interceptor is a vital piece of equipment in ensuring your FOG capture and disposal routines are legally compliant. Once your FOG is captured, both in your grease trap and directly from your cookware and equipment, it can be stored in sealed containers awaiting the next step. So, let’s look at how to dispose of grease trap waste effectively and legally.

In a big win for sustainability, waste fats, oils and grease can be taken to specialised recycling facilities for processing. Waste FOG can be useful in several ways, including in the creation of biodiesel and in being processed into industrial lubricants.

If taking your used FOG to a waste centre is inefficient, you can instead opt to have it collected by certified waste disposal companies. This is a service Aqua Mundus provides, and we’ll always ensure the correct waste transfer documentation is returned for your records.

Some areas provide FOG collection points for businesses and households. These facilities are specifically designed for safe and secure grease waste disposal. Containers of cooled and sealed grease can be dropped off here for proper processing.

As mentioned, biodiesel manufacturers can turn FOG into a renewable energy source. By taking steps to get your used FOG to one of these manufacturers, you’re supporting a more sustainable approach to fuel production and stopping your FOG going to a landfill site.

You’re going to need sealable storage containers to keep your FOG in when it’s waiting for disposal. Depending on the amount of FOG your business produces and the frequency of disposal, these can vary in size. Be sure they’re robust enough to prevent leakage and avoid contamination.

Navigating the best methods for FOG disposal can be challenging, but Aqua Mundus is here to help. With over 25 years of experience in grease management, we offer tailored advice, professional services and compliant solutions. Contact us today to arrange a free site survey and discover where to dispose of fats, oils and grease easily, efficiently and compliantly.