How to recycle food waste
Unavoidable household food scraps, peelings, leftovers, bones and used ingredients.
Other names include food caddy waste, food scraps, kitchen waste.
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How to recycle food waste
Use food before it spoils when you can. Put unavoidable scraps into the council caddy without packaging.
- Possible recycling routes
- Food waste collectionsHousehold waste recycling centres
Prepare food waste for recycling
- Remove all packaging
- Drain excess liquid
- Use only the caddy liners accepted by the council
What must stay out
Keep these items separate and check the site rules before you travel.
- Rules for liquids, oils and compostable packaging vary
- Do not put ordinary plastic bags in the caddy unless the council permits them
- Home compost bins cannot safely take every type of food
Types of site to check
These site types can list food waste. Each provider sets its own limits and access rules.
- Food waste collections
Council food waste services and public food waste points. Collection rules and caddy liner rules vary by council.
- Household waste recycling centres
Council-run sites that accept many types of household recycling and waste. Local rules can cover booking, proof of address, vehicle permits and charges for some DIY waste.
Collection and take-back services
These services may offer another route when a local site does not list the item.
- Find your local council
GOV.UK sends you to the council that manages household recycling and waste services for your postcode.
- Recycle Now
UK recycling guidance with an item directory and a postcode-based recycling locator.
Related item guides
- Coffee pods
Used aluminium or plastic coffee capsules from compatible home coffee machines.
- Cooking oil
Used vegetable oil, frying oil and other edible household oils.
- Garden waste
Grass cuttings, leaves, hedge trimmings, plants and small branches from household gardens.
Questions about recycling food waste
- Where can I recycle food waste?
- Enter your postcode in the local finder to search food waste collections and household waste recycling centres near you. Check the provider page before you travel because item lists and access rules can change.
- How should I prepare food waste for recycling?
- Use food before it spoils when you can. Put unavoidable scraps into the council caddy without packaging.
Sources for this guide
- Simpler recycling: household recycling in England
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs · Reviewed 14 August 2026
- Recycle an item
Recycle Now · Reviewed 14 August 2026