Find out why the proper disposal of F.O.G., (Fats, Oils, Grease and Wax) is so important.

     This Thanksgiving, as you whip up your holiday meal, chances are you will end up with leftover cooking oils and fat. It is important to learn the proper way to dispose of those oils. Pouring them down the drain can be hazardous to the environment and possibly, your pocket. F.O.G. sticks to the inside of sewer pipes when cooled, causing constricted flow and blocked pipes. It’s essential to ensure your home plumbing and sewer lines don’t get clogged.

     You can easily avoid a costly sewage repair by changing a few simple F.O.G. disposal habits. It’s important to scrape food scraps into your trash instead of always using your garbage disposal. Also, wait until your fats and oils have cooled, then pour them into a can or a plastic bottle for disposal. 

Remove F.O.G. from all cookware with a paper towel before washing. Put baskets/strainers in sink drains to catch food scraps and other solids and empty them into the trash. 

     “The buildup of Fats, Oils, Grease and Wax (F.O.G.) can eventually block your pipes. If this happens, raw sewage can back up into your residence or business.” quote from Johnny Rogers, SRU F.O.G. Program Coordinator

Examples of Fats, Oil, Grease and Wax:
- Cooking oil and shortening
- Oily sauces and salad dressing
- Meat fats and pan drippings
- Candle wax
- Dairy products, butter or margarine