The advice given is for various reasons, including the benefits to the environment as well as your budget. There are many stories where drains get backed up due to the liquid oil and fat solidifying in the pipes. This buildup inside the pipes can lead to blockages and smells that can cost you a pretty penny to remedy.
How should you dispose of oil and grease after cooking?
- For those fats that become solid (such as bacon grease), you should let them harden in the pan or a small jar and scrape the fat into your trash can. Speeding up the process by placing the pot or jar in the refrigerator to chill the grease will make it easier for disposal.
- For oils and grease that do not solidify, pour them into a non-recyclable container and throw it and the contents away. Another option is to pour the cooled oil or fat into a plastic shopping bag that has old paper products, vegetable trimmings, and even kitty litter in it. This waste can soak up some of the oil, preventing you from having a mess on your hands. Then tie the bag and toss it in the trash can.
- Search earth911, for recycling companies in your area that may accept oils and fats.
Reusing Oils
- Some fats like bacon grease can be stored and reused by putting it in the fridge for a week or at most two; after that, it can become rancid. To save it longer, place it in the freezer for up to a year. This type of face can add flavor to frying onions or cooking green beans.
- For vegetable oil, remove any big chunks of leftover food and let cool, then pour it into a non-recyclable container. You might even want to pour it through a sieve to remove more of the food particles from the oil. It is crucial to make sure you label it correctly when storing it. You wouldn’t want to have that cake you are baking taste like the fish you fried up a week ago. You can reuse the oil used to fry potatoes 3-4 times, which will save you money on your budget and help lessen the impact on the environment.
If you follow these tips as you dispose of cooking oils and grease, you not only will help the environment, but you also will not have to worry about blocked drains and unwanted odors from your plumbing or your trash can. Plus, you can keep cooking those great meals for your family and friends, all the while helping the environment as you reduce food waste.
