Food scraps: how to get rid of it

Last reviewed 21 October 2026 · General guidance for the UK · Council rules vary

Food waste

Where it usually goes

Food caddy if your council collects food waste.

Food caddy if your council collects food waste, otherwise general rubbish.

Put it in your food waste caddy if your council collects food waste.
If not, wrap it and put it in your general bin, or compost suitable food at home.

What goes in which bin, bulky collections and recycling centre rules are set by your local council. Find your local council on GOV.UK ↗

Also searched for as: leftovers, peelings, tea bags, coffee grounds, bones.