Fats, Oils & Grease

What are Fats, Oils & Grease (FOG)?

FOG is a byproduct of cooking from:

• Cooking Oil / Butter / Margarine / Lard / Shortening
• Meat and Meat Fats
• Dairy Products (Milk, Cheeses, Yogurt)
• Sauces / Gravies / Salad Dressings
• Deep-fried Dishes (French Fries, Fried Chicken)
• Baking Goods (Pizza, Cookies, Pastries)
• Food Scraps

Why is FOG a problem?

When washed down the sink, FOG sticks to the insides of sewer pipes and over time accumulates in the sewer system. This will cause obstruction or blockage of the sewer pipe, ultimately resulting in a sewer overflow. FOG also accumulates in pump station wet wells causing a decrease in capacities and an increase in maintenance requirements.

How Can You Help?

• DO NOT pour FOG down sinks.
• Wipe pots and dishes with a used paper towel or napkin to remove grease.
• Pour cooking oils and grease in a container and dispose of it in the garbage.
• Use strainers in your kitchen sink to catch food particles and then empty into the trash.
• Place meat and greasy food scraps in your brown food/yard waste container (or in the garbage if you don’t have food/yard waste service), not down the garbage disposal.
• For larger amounts of FOG collect in an old can, jar or bottle and bring to the Household Hazardous Waste Facility for free recycling.

To reduce the harmful effects of FOG pollution year-round, incorporate disposal tips into everyday cooking habits.

For more information about the proper disposal of Fats, Oils, and Grease, please call (909) 428-8819.