- 1Remove all packaging and wrappings
- 2Break into smaller pieces for faster decomposition
- 3Bury in center of compost pile to deter pests
- 4Mix with other organic materials
- 5Avoid adding excessive amounts at once
- Municipal food waste collection
- Commercial composting facilities
- Home compost bins (with caution)
- Food rescue programs (fresh items)
- Animal feed programs (stale bread)
Bread and baked goods are carbon-rich materials that balance nitrogen-rich food scraps. They attract pests in outdoor compost, so bury them deep or use sealed bins.
Americans waste 15 million tons of baked goods annually. Composting diverts this waste from landfills and recovers nutrients while reducing methane emissions.
- Make breadcrumbs for cooking
- Create croutons or bread pudding
- Feed to backyard chickens or ducks
- Donate fresh items to food banks
- Make French toast or stuffing
Accepted
- Bread (white, whole wheat, sourdough)
- Bagels, rolls, and buns
- Pastries and donuts
- Crackers and breadsticks
- Tortillas and flatbreads
- Cakes and muffins
Not Accepted
- Items with excessive frosting or cream filling (some programs)
- Bread with mold (acceptable in some programs)
- Items in packaging or wrappers
Estimated value: Prevents waste of food worth $1-5 per pound; creates compost worth $30-50 per cubic yard
Can moldy bread be composted?
Yes! Mold is part of the natural decomposition process. Just don't add bread with toxic molds to food gardens - use ornamental areas instead.
Will bread attract rats to my compost?
It can. Bury bread deep in the center of your pile, use a sealed bin, or stick to municipal collection if pests are a concern.
Can I compost bread with butter or spreads?
Small amounts are fine for commercial composting. For home bins, it's best to avoid heavily buttered or oily bread as fats slow decomposition.