The disposal of waste food
(for England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
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If you need to dispose of any waste food, you must comply with the Animal By-Products Regulations 2005 (as amended). The Regulations lay down rules for the collection, handling, transport, storage and disposal of animal by-products, which include catering waste, former foodstuffs and other animal waste.
The aim is to control the risks, including disease, to both animals and the public. The Regulations concentrate on the disposal of ‘Category 3’ waste which includes raw meat and fish, and former foodstuffs. Food that cannot go to landfill must be stored correctly and be collected by a licensed carrier who will provide you with certain documentation.
A list of approved carriers can be found on the Defra website.
