The cost of using fat, oil and grease for food businesses
The costs catering businesses may have to pay when using and disposing of fat, oil and grease.
The cost of using and disposing of fats, oils and grease varies according to the type and size of your food business. Being aware of the costs can help you decide how you will manage fats, oils and grease.
Costs of using fat, oil and grease
The potential costs of using fat, oil and grease include:
Purchase and disposal
A medium-sized restaurant or takeaway business typically spends 拢3,000-拢4,000 per year on cooking oils. You should collect fats, oils and grease in a suitable container and have them disposed of by a .
Cleaning materials
For example, washing-up liquid, dishwasher detergent and sanitiser. Generally, a medium-sized hot-food business will spend 拢1,000 to 拢3,000 per year on cleaning chemicals.
Fines and prosecutions
Problems due to fat, oil and grease in drains can prevent you from complying with food hygiene rules. This could result in you being prosecuted or receiving a prohibition order that stops you from trading at your premises.
Clearing blockages in pipes and drains
An estimated 拢15 million is spent on clearing blockages each year in the UK. These tend to be a result of fats, oils and grease. Avoiding these blockages will help you avoid costs and disruption to your business. If Northern Ireland Water finds you have contributed to a sewer blockage, they may seek to recover clearance costs from you. See their guidance on .
Accidents
Staff slipping on or spilling fats, oils and grease can lead to them being off work and possible injury claims against your business. One solution is to buy a heavy-duty hygiene mat, although these cost around 拢1,000.
Fires
These can have major impacts including the cost of replacing equipment, repairing damaged premises and loss of business while the kitchen is closed. There is even the potential for injury, loss of life and business closure. A fire may also affect neighbouring properties and businesses.