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Fats Oils and Grease Disposal

The image outlines three actions for dealing with food waste: "Scrape It," "Can It," and "Trash It."

 

In order to protect and extend the use life of our sewer and wastewater infrastructure, it is important that residents of the Del Monte Foreest are mindful of what is sent down drains or flushed down toilets.  

Improper disposal of items can lead to sewer backups and sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs) or maintenance issues, thereby threatening the reliability of our sanitary sewer system and the health of our community.

 

A close-up of a black pipe showing a buildup of a thick, beige substance, likely debris or sludge inside.
A sewer pipe clogged with hardened fats oils and grease
Fats, Oils, and Grease

Cooking fats, oils and grease, if washed down the drain, can lead to sewage back-ups at home, your business or in the community’s sewer pipes. When grease is washed down the sink, it cools and congeals on sewer lines. Over time it can build up and eventually block the pipe. Some overflows in the street can even flow into storm drains, which flow to local creeks, beaches, and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.

A hand using tongs to lift a piece of food from a pan containing cooked meat and a white ingredient, likely for cooking.
Using a paper towel to soak up excess grease during cooking

To protect the Bay and ensure clog-free drains, follow these simple steps:

  • Wipe or soak up grease out of pans. 
  • Scrape larger amounts of grease out of pans into a covered can and place in a garbage can with a plastic liner
  • For accumulated grease or for large amounts, like from a fryer, please store the cooled oil in a sealable container. ReGen Monterey accepts up to 15 gallons of household 
  • Properly dispose of used motor oil at designated recycling centers

Heavy foods that should not go down the drain: 

  • Dairy Products
  • Lard and Shortening
  • Butter and Margarine
  • Oils
  • Food Scraps
  • Soups

 

For more information on Fats Oils and Grease Disposal please visit our partners: 

Pebble Beach - GreenWaste Recovery

ClogBusters : Southern Monterey Bay Dischargers Group

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