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Food Waste

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How to Recycle Right

Food waste is any food that's thrown away instead of being eaten, including leftovers, spoiled ingredients, and food that goes unused.

Reducing food waste helps conserve resources and lowers your impact on the environment.

Did You Know?

30-40%
of the entire U.S. food supply is wasted.
22%
of solid waste in New Jersey is food waste.
500 pounds
of food is thrown away by each Middlesex County resident every year.
62.8M tons
of food waste was generated in the U.S. in 2023.

Best if Used By/Before: The last day a product will have the “best” flavor or quality.

Sell By: The last day a store can display the product for sale.

Freeze By: The last day a product can be frozen to maintain the best quality.

Composting

Not all food waste can be avoided, but it can be kept out of the trash. Composting turns food scraps and yard waste into a nutrient-rich material that supports soil and plant health.

  • Fruit & Veggie Scraps
  • Coffee Grounds/Filters
  • Tea Bags
  • Yard Waste

Workshops

Bin Sales

Start composting at home with a compost bin.

To get started, email solidwaste@co.middlesex.nj.us or call 732-745-4170 for pricing, pickup details, and availability.

View the Compost Bin Purchase Flyer for more details.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Recycle Food Waste In My Curbside Bin