Food scraps make up a significant portion of household waste and are the single largest material sent to landfills in the United States. When food waste breaks down in landfills, it produces methane, a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. Fortunately, there is a way to divert food scraps from the waste stream...by food scrap recycling. This is when leftover food and other organic materials are collected by an organization or municipality and are eventually transformed into nutrient-rich compost. Food scrap recycling programs reduce landfill waste while helping support healthier soil and reducing the need for chemical fertilizers. 

Food scrap recycling typically includes common kitchen waste items that can also be put in a backyard compost pile, such as fruits and vegetables, coffee grounds, eggshells, pasta and grains, bread, and unbleached paper products. It can also include items that cannot go into a backyard compost pile, like meat, dairy, and bones. Utilizing food scrap recycling programs can make a big difference in the amount of food waste that makes its way into the garbage. Because accepted materials vary, residents should always follow the guidelines of their specific food scrap recycling program to determine which materials are accepted. Items to avoid adding to the food scraps recycling bin are pet waste, baby wipes, diapers, sanitary products, and glass, metal or plastic packaging.

Residents interested in learning more about recycling or participating in future food scrap recycling opportunities should sign up for notifications on the Putnam Recycles website. Those with specific questions can email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.