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What is F.O.G.?
F.O.G. is an acronym for Fat, Oil and Grease. It is harmful to the internal sanitary sewer lines inside the home, the District sanitary sewer infrastructure and the environment.
F.O.G. comes from a variety of food sources, either as an ingredient of OR a byproduct of food preparation.
Examples of F.O.G.:
- fats found in meats through cooking and food scraps
- cooking oil, lard or shortening
- butter or margarine
- bacon and sausage grease
- mayonnaise
- salad dressing and gravy
- dairy products, such as but not limited to milk, yogurt and cheese
When these items are poured down the drain, it can accumulate and harden inside sewer pipes causing blockages, backups, and overflows. When these failures occur, it can release raw sewage into the environment which then enters our drainage channels that lead into the bayous, creeks, lakes, and the Gulf of Mexico. This raw sewage carries a variety of bacteria that has a negative impact on human health, fish and wildlife.
Let F.O.G. cool and DO NOT pour down sinks or drains!
Proper Disposal of F.O.G.:
- Pour into a sealable can or bottle then dispose at a local county recycle center or household trash receptacle
- Scrape food particles and absorb excess oils with a paper towel from pots and pans prior to placing them into the sink for washing
- Use strainers in the sink to catch scraps and other solids
Please remember hot water and soap DO NOT eliminate F.O.G. because it will eventually reform further down the pipes.
Sources: https://www.tceq.texas.gov/assistance/water/wastewater/fog/home_fog.html