Dealers, grease contractors and resellers should approach specifying grease traps for commercial kitchens by assessing each project on its own merits. Each water utility in the UK has a slightly different interpretation of legislation and requirements on operators when it comes to Fat, Oil and Grease (FOG) Control. Taking into account all the kitchen appliances, geographic regions, type of cuisine and other project specific factors, will ensure compliance, correct grease trap sizing and ease of maintenance for the operator. There are also product agnostic grease contractors like Aqua Mundus who are supporting the industry with free grease trap expert advice, sizing and compliance support.
Engaging with Food Serving Establiments on FOG is never easy and the industry is raising the profile of the issue with events like the European FOG Summit as well as informing key stakeholders through trade publications such as Catering Insight. The key to engaging commercial kitchens is training the trainer, making sure that all kitchen designers, specifiers and dealers are aware of current legislation and possible changes proposed in the Environment Bill currently making its way through Parliament. Magnete in cooperation with Thermaco Inc. is offering free virtual 30 minute lunch and learn seminars to stay connected and up-to-date on FOG developments.
In many ways the circular economy could change the perception of FOG by making waste a new revenue stream for commercial kitchens. Binder Ltd, a UK Trapzilla & Big-Dipper distributor, in East Anglia contracted with a business that recycles FOG into biodiesel in 2019. Binder Ltd. now recycles 30 tons of grease every month. Not only has grease recycling become a lucrative revenue stream with increased demand due to biofuel additives, it also ensures less grease ends up in municipal treatment plants simplifying and improving the waste water treatment process.
Legislation is always changing and that is no different for FOG Control. While there are some legislation such as Water Industry Act 1991, Environmental Protection Act 1990, EN1825, ASME and PDI continue to be important. Changes might arrive in the form of Environment Bill currently going through Parliament. Philip Dunne (MP) already supports the Government amendment to the Environment Bill that places a legal duty on water companies to reduce sewage discharges. Further areas relating to the capture of unavoidable food waste are also being discussed at the moment. Following the trade press such as Catering Insight or subscribing to industry expert newsletters should keep everyone up-to-date on the latest developments.