Fats, oils, and greases (FOGs) produced when cooking certain foods can spell serious trouble for customers and our water system when washed down kitchen drains.
Rich foods are an enjoyable part of any fall celebration. But the fats, oils, and grease (FOGs) produced when cooking can create serious problems in our sewers.
When FOGs — like cooking oil, fat from meat, dairy, gravy, or peanut butter — are poured down kitchen drains, they harden inside pipes, restricting wastewater flow. These blockages are a main cause of sewage backups, which can result in costly cleanup and repairs.
This holiday season, give thanks to your pipes by properly disposing of FOGs:
- Cool It: Allow FOGs to cool to a safe handling temperature after cooking.
- Can It: Pour cooled FOGs into a sealable container, like a jar or can. Store the container in the refrigerator until it’s full.
- Trash It: Never put FOGs down sink drains or in-sink garbage disposals. Scrape food scraps into the compost or trash. Wipe up FOGs left on pans or dishes with a paper towel then discard in the trash. When your sealed FOG container is full, trash it.
Learn more on our Defend Your Drains website.
