Frequently Asked Questions

Below you'll find answers to some of the most common questions we receive about our dedicated food waste collection and recycling services across South Yorkshire. If you can't find what you're looking for here, please contact us. Our highly experienced staff are on hand to answer all your queries.
Scrancycle team answering common questions about business food waste collection and recycling

Is my business responsible for food waste?

All businesses in England are required to keep food waste separate from general rubbish so it can be collected for recycling. Larger businesses with ten or more full-time employees have been required to do this since 31 March 2025, while smaller businesses with fewer than ten full-time employees will need to comply from 31 March 2027. This means every business must have a dedicated system in place for food waste recycling. Find out more by visiting our Food Waste Regulations page.

What happens to the food waste after collection?

Anaerobic digestion is a process that turns food waste into renewable energy. After collection, your food waste is taken to a specialist facility and placed in large sealed tanks
with no oxygen. Inside these tanks, natural microorganisms break down the waste and produce biogas.

 Biogas is a clean, renewable source of energy that can be used to generate electricity, provide heating, or be upgraded into fuel for vehicles. By using anaerobic digestion, food waste is kept out of landfill, reducing harmful greenhouse gas emissions. 

This process not only helps protect the environment but also creates sustainable energy from something that would otherwise be thrown away. Making food waste part of a
greener future.

Do you provide food waste bins?

Yes, we supply all our customers with food waste bins at no additional cost as part of the service.

What size are the food waste bins?

Our standard food waste bins are 240 litres (standard wheelie bins size), but we can provide alternative sizes to suit your needs.

How do you keep your bins hygienic?

We advise that all food waste is bagged before disposal. Bags can be supplied upon request. We can also arrange a professional bin cleaning service.

What types of businesses do you collect from?

We work with a wide range of commercial customers - from restaurants and cafés to schools, supermarkets, manufacturers, and more. Visit our About Us page to see a full list of sectors we serve.

Do you offer bulk or one-off collections?

Yes, we offer both. Existing customers can request ad hoc or bulk collections with 24 hours notice. For new or returning clients, we’ll do our best to arrange a fast response.

Can you collect packaged food waste?

We do accept packaged food waste. However, there may be an additional charge for
handling items in glass, metal, or other time-consuming packaging. Wherever
possible, we encourage bagged “naked” food waste to speed up processing and
reduce costs.

What types of food waste do you accept?

We collect a broad range of food waste, including preparation waste (like peelings), plate scrapings, and expired food. We also accept Category 3 Animal By-Products (ABP), which are ideal for AD due to their high energy content. Liquid food waste may also be accepted, subject to approval for suitability at the processing facility.

Do you provide documentation for compliance?

Yes, we supply all necessary waste transfer notes and records to help your business stay compliant with UK waste regulations.
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