For fish and chip shops and food businesses across the UK, proper oil management and waste disposal have always been important—but with new food waste regulations coming into force in March 2025, it’s more crucial than ever to ensure compliance.
Failing to dispose of used cooking oil correctly can already lead to fines and legal trouble, but the new legislation will introduce even stricter rules. Fortunately, Premier 1 Filtration can help businesses dramatically reduce waste and cut costs while staying compliant.
Current Food Waste Legislation – The UK Laws
Under existing legislation, businesses must ensure that used cooking oil is collected and disposed of properly, avoiding illegal dumping or improper disposal methods. The Food Safety Act 1990 and Environmental Protection Act 1990 make it clear that:
· Waste oil must not be poured down drains or disposed of in general waste.
· Businesses must store used oil securely in sealed containers.
· It must be collected by a licensed waste carrier for proper recycling or disposal.
· Failure to comply can lead to significant fines or legal action.
There have already been cases where food businesses were fined thousands of pounds for causing drain blockages and environmental damage due to improper oil disposal.
But from 31 March 2025, new food waste laws will make things even stricter.
The New Food Waste Legislation: What’s Changing in March 2025?
The new UK-wide food waste regulations will impact all businesses that produce more than 5kg of food waste per week (which includes most fish and chip shops). Key changes include:
· Mandatory Food Waste Separation – Businesses must separate food waste from general waste and arrange for collection by a licensed waste carrier.
· No More Drain Disposal – Pouring waste oil or food waste down the drain will be strictly prohibited.
· Compliance Deadlines – Businesses must comply by March 2025, but micro-businesses (under 10 employees) have until March 2027.
With these new laws, efficient oil management is no longer just about cost savings—it’s about staying legal.
How Premier 1 Filtration Helps You Reduce Waste & Stay Compliant
If you’re disposing of oil frequently, you’re losing money and increasing waste unnecessarily.
The good news?
Premier 1 Filtration’s advanced oil filtration systems can help you extend the life of your oil, reduce waste, and save money—all while keeping your business compliant.
The Merlin Maestro – A Smarter Approach to Oil Filtration
The Merlin Maestro filtration machine is designed to keep oil cleaner for longer, meaning businesses don’t have to dispose of oil as frequently.
Here’s how it helps:
· Extends Oil Life – By removing food particles, carbon, and impurities, it keeps oil fresher for longer, significantly reducing waste.
· Fast & Efficient – The filtration process is quick, ensuring minimal disruption to operations.
· Cost Savings – Businesses nationwide have already reduced their oil usage dramatically since implementing proper filtration.
· Better Cooking Quality – Cleaner oil results in consistently crisp, high-quality food.
· Simple & Easy to Use – The machine is designed for ease of use and integrates smoothly into daily operations.
Why Upgrade Now?
With new food waste laws coming, now is the time to invest in better oil management. By reducing waste oil volumes, businesses can not only stay compliant with the regulations but also benefit from:
· Lower oil costs – Less frequent oil disposal means significant savings.
· Less waste collection hassle – Reducing waste oil output means fewer collections.
· Healthier working conditions – Less waste oil reduces hygiene and safety risks.
· A more sustainable business – Reducing waste benefits both businesses and the environment.
Many food businesses are already benefiting from Premier 1 Filtration’s machines. Don’t wait until March 2025—get ahead now and future-proof your business.
Get Started Today
Avoid unnecessary fines, save money, and improve oil quality all in one go. If you’re still disposing of oil too often, it’s time to make a change.
Talk to our team today to find out how the Merlin Maestro and our range of filtration solutions can transform your business.
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