How Your Food Business Can Be Better at Recycling

Running a food business or restaurant means juggling a hundred tasks at once—but one area that deserves more attention is recycling. 

As sustainability becomes increasingly important to customers and communities alike, restaurants that take waste management seriously not only reduce their environmental impact, but also improve their brand image and operational efficiency.

Here are practical ways your food business can step up its recycling game:

1. Audit Your Waste

Before making changes, understand what you’re throwing away. Conduct a waste audit to assess the volume of recyclable vs. non-recyclable waste. Look for:

Cardboard from deliveries

Glass bottles and jars

Tins and cans

Plastic containers

Food waste

This helps identify what can be recycled and what can potentially be reduced or reused.

2. Separate and Label Bins Clearly

Recycling fails when the system is confusing. Make it easy for your team with:

Colour-coded bins (e.g., blue for paper, green for glass)

Clear signage with pictures

Staff training so everyone knows what goes where

Don’t forget to place bins in accessible spots—especially near food prep and packaging areas.

3. Work With Local Recycling Partners

Not all councils and waste services recycle the same materials. Partner with a reliable local recycling provider who can guide you on what’s accepted and offer regular collection schedules. Some may even help with composting food waste.

4. Recycle Cooking Oil

Used cooking oil doesn’t belong down the drain. There are companies that collect and recycle it into biodiesel. This not only prevents plumbing issues but turns waste into fuel.

5. Switch to Recyclable or Compostable Packaging

If you offer takeaway or delivery, choose packaging that’s recyclable or compostable. Avoid polystyrene and opt for:

Paper-based containers

Compostable cutlery

Recyclable cups and lids

Make sure packaging is labelled clearly so customers know how to dispose of it properly.

6. Encourage Staff and Customer Involvement

Sustainability works best when it’s a team effort. Involve staff in recycling initiatives, reward good habits, and communicate your efforts to customers. You could even add signage about your eco-initiatives or offer discounts to customers who bring reusable containers.

7. Donate Surplus Food

Reducing waste is as important as recycling. Partner with local food banks, shelters or community fridges to donate safe-to-eat surplus food. It’s a meaningful way to give back and minimise what goes in the bin.

8. Track Your Progress

Use monthly check-ins to track recycling rates, review what’s working, and set new goals. Celebrate milestones with your team and share your achievements with customers via social media.

Final Thoughts Recycling isn’t just a tick-box exercise—it’s an ongoing opportunity to make your business greener, more efficient, and more in tune with customer values. By starting small and building momentum, your food business can make a real difference for the planet and your bottom line.