Do you own or manage a commercial company? You’ve probably got yourself a commercial food waste bin under the new regulations. 

While it’s obvious what can go inside, what may be less obvious is what should not be disposed of in these bins. Especially the question of packaging. 

Here at Bio Collectors, we collect and transform food waste into biogas for the National Grid to power businesses like yours. That means we know a thing or two about food disposal. In this article, we’ll outline exactly what you can’t put in a commercial food waste bin to make your job easier. 

Can I put packaging in a commercial food waste bin? 

The majority of food waste collection companies will not allow you to put any form of plastic or food packaging into a food waste collection bin. 

However, new “simpler recycling” legislation coming into action on March 31st introduces clearer guidelines for businesses, requiring packaging to be separated more effectively and disposed of through appropriate recycling streams. This aims to reduce contamination in food waste bins and improve recycling rates.

Why should you be careful? 

It will be no surprise that food waste bins should be for food. Putting non-approved waste in your bin could contaminate the entire bin load. This may mean your collection crew will be unable to take your waste away, delaying things for everyone. 

Also, just because something is biodegradable, doesn’t mean you can place it in these bins. Garden waste is a prime example. While it can break down, it is not authorised for disposal in a commercial food waste bin. 

With the new, simpler recycling legislation coming into effect in March, businesses will need to be extra careful when disposing of waste. The updated rules will require stricter separation of waste, and improper disposal could result in penalties or delays in collection. It’s important to stay informed and follow the guidelines to avoid contamination and ensure compliance.

What can’t you put in a commercial food waste bin? 

A more comprehensive list of the materials and items that should not be placed in a commercial food waste bin include: 

• Glass
• Metal
• Paper
• Napkins
• Plastic
• Construction waste 
• Green and garden waste 
• Contents of black bin bags
• Chemicals and medicines 
• Hazardous waste 
• Packaging

Simply put, if you’re not sure if your chosen food waste management company accepts a certain item, all you need to do is ask. 

Remember that under the new “Simplier Recycling” UK regulations, if your non-domestic property produces at least 5 kg of food waste per week, you must store this separately. It then needs to be collected and processed by a licensed professional. To find out how to get your business ready for these new regulations check out our helpful blog article – “Get your business ready for new UK food legislation”. If you’re located in the capital city, let Bio Collectors be your chosen expert for straightforward and eco-friendly food collection. 

Welcome to Bio Collectors, a future-facing company that uses your commercial food waste to power homes and businesses nationwide. Serving London and across the M25 region, we’re leading the way in commercial food waste recycling thanks to our simple, flexible collection and state-of-the-art anaerobic digestion plant. Don’t let your food go to waste, and instead get in touch with us today.