Question 1

What types of organic waste do you accept?

Accepted Answer

Pre-consumer food waste (prep scraps, trim), post-consumer food waste (plate scrapings), expired food, yard waste, BPI-certified compostable serviceware, coffee grounds, and food-contaminated paper/cardboard.

Question 2

What's the difference between composting and anaerobic digestion?

Accepted Answer

Composting decomposes organics aerobically (with oxygen) into soil amendment. Anaerobic digestion breaks down organics without oxygen, producing biogas (renewable energy) and digestate. We route to whichever facility is available in your area.

Question 3

Does my state require organic waste diversion?

Accepted Answer

As of 2025, 13+ states have passed or proposed organic waste mandates for commercial generators. California (SB 1383), Vermont, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York are among the strictest. Contact us for your state's requirements.

Question 4

How do you prevent odor and pest issues?

Accepted Answer

Proper containers with tight-fitting lids, appropriate collection frequency (daily for high-volume kitchens), and staff training on what goes in. We size the program to prevent accumulation and odor.

Question 5

Can compostable packaging go in?

Accepted Answer

BPI-certified compostable serviceware is accepted at most commercial composting facilities. Non-certified "eco-friendly" packaging often cannot be composted — check for the BPI logo.

Question 6

What documentation do I receive?

Accepted Answer

Weight tickets, monthly diversion reports, and methane avoidance calculations. Annual data formatted for SB 1383 compliance (CA) and other state reporting requirements.

Question 7

What's the minimum volume?

Accepted Answer

For dedicated organics pickup: one 64-gallon toter per week minimum. Smaller volumes can often be handled through municipal composting programs where available.

Question 8

Is there a cost savings vs landfill?

Accepted Answer

In many markets, organics diversion is cost-neutral or cheaper than landfill disposal — especially in states with organic waste bans where landfill tipping fees include surcharges for organic content.

Food Waste Recycling — FAQ