How to Recycle Food Waste
America wastes 60 million tons of food yearly (30-40% of supply) - only 5% is composted. Food waste causes 58% of landfill methane. Learn composting, collection programs, and waste reduction.
6 food waste materials found
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Ready to recycle your food waste materials? Use our search tool to find nearby recycling centers that accept these items.
Complete Food Waste Guide
The Power of Composting
Food waste creates methane in landfills, a powerful greenhouse gas. Composting transforms this "waste" into valuable, nutrient-rich soil.
- • Greens (Nitrogen): Fruit scraps, vegetable peels, coffee grounds
- • Browns (Carbon): Paper napkins, cardboard, sawdust
- • No-Go Items: Plastics, stickers, metals, glass
- • Outcome: Natural fertilizer for gardens and farms
Environmental Benefits
Diverting food waste is one of the most effective ways to reduce your carbon footprint and fight climate change locally.
Why It Matters:
- • Reduces landfill methane emissions significantly
- • Enriches soil and reduces need for chemical fertilizers
- • Improves soil water retention
- • Reduces trash volume by up to 40%
Food Waste & Composting FAQ
What foods can be composted?
Fruits, vegetables, eggshells, coffee grounds, tea bags, nut shells, shredded paper, cardboard. Avoid meat, dairy, and oils in backyard piles (these require industrial composting).
Can I compost meat and dairy?
In industrial/municipal programs: Usually YES (they get hot enough). In backyard compost: NO (they attract pests and produce odors). Always check your local program guidelines.
Can I compost bioplastics?
Only in industrial facilities. "Compostable" forks/cups will NOT break down in a backyard pile; they need sustained high heat (140°F+).
Does composting smell?
A healthy compost pile smells like earthy soil. If it smells rotten, it needs more air (turning) or more "browns" (leaves/paper). Bad smells usually mean it's too wet.