Commercial Food Waste: New Requirements and Solutions for 2025

As a commercial waste collection company serving Spelthorne and surrounding areas, we want to inform our customers about crucial changes coming to food waste management in England.

New Legal Requirements

Starting March 31, 2025, businesses producing more than 5kg of food waste weekly must separate food waste from other waste streams. This includes:

- Storage in dedicated food waste bins

- Collection by licensed waste carriers

- Separation of all biodegradable materials including bones, eggshells, fruit peels, and coffee grounds

Small Business Exception: 

Companies with fewer than 10 full-time employees have until March 31, 2027, to comply

Current Food Waste Statistics

The scale of commercial food waste in the UK is significant:

- The hospitality sector generates 920,000 tonnes annually

- The retail sector contributes 270,000 tonnes yearly

- Only 7% of food surplus from retail and manufacturing is currently redistributed

Benefits of Proper Food Waste Management

Financial Advantages

- Restaurants can save £7 for every £1 invested in reducing kitchen food waste

- Most businesses recover their investment within one year

- Significant reduction in disposal costs

Environmental Impact

The government prefers food waste to be processed through anaerobic digestion, which:

- Generates biofuel for energy

- Creates digestate for land fertilization

- Supports a circular economy

Staff Training

- Train employees in proper food handling

- Implement portion control

- Establish waste segregation practices

How We Can Help

As your local waste management partner, we offer:

- Dedicated food waste collection services

- Compliant waste bins

- Expert guidance on separation requirements

- Licensed waste carrier services

Contact Spelthorne Direct Services today to ensure your business is ready for the 2025 legislation and to discuss your commercial food waste collection needs.