Review of the Household Use of Food Waste Disposal Units

What is it about?

Municipal solid waste (MSW) consists of a high proportion of biodegradable matter, which when disposed of to landfill decomposes leading to the formation of gas and leachate. Food waste disposal units (FWDs) were introduced to the United States in 1927 as a convenient and hygienic means to grind food waste at source and dispose it directly to the sewer for treatment with the wastewater. Although FWDs are used in many countries throughout the world, their potential as a waste management option has not been fully considered. Through a literature review on the potential benefits and impacts associated with the use of FWDs, the authors attempted to assist in understanding how different factors may affect the sustainability of these units. Findings demonstrate that FWDs are effective in reducing the amount of food waste disposed of to landfill, but their sustainability can be limited due to the area-specific characteristics and practices. A scoping analysis prior to implementing this food waste management option, is thus required.

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