Home > Repurpose Used Cooking Oil–A Sustainable Solution

During frying, several properties of oil are altered, Total Polar Compounds (TPC) are formed on repeated frying. The toxicity of these compounds is associated with several diseases such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, liver diseases. Therefore, it is essential to monitor the quality of vegetable oils during frying.

In order to safeguard consumer health, FSSAI has fixed a limit for Total Polar Compounds at 25 percent beyond which the vegetable oil shall not be used. From 1st July, 2018 onwards, all Food Business Operators (FBOs) are required to monitor the quality of oil during frying by complying with the said regulations.

Used cooking oil (UCO), often considered a waste product, presents a powerful opportunity for environmental sustainability, economic value, and innovation. Instead of discarding it into drains or landfills—where it can clog pipes and pollute ecosystems—repurposing UCO offers a range of practical and eco-friendly solutions.

Why Repurpose Used Cooking Oil (RUCO)?

Environmental Protection:

• Prevents water pollution and soil contamination.
• Reduces greenhouse gas emissions when used in biodiesel production.
• Decreases the volume of waste sent to landfills.

Economic Benefits:

• Converts waste into a valuable resource.
• Creates jobs in recycling and biodiesel industries.
• Lowers energy and fuel costs in the long term.

Energy Sustainability:

• Used cooking oil is a renewable feedstock for biodiesel, a cleaner alternative to petroleum-based fuels.
• Helps reduce dependence on fossil fuels

Sustainable Ways to Repurpose Used Cooking Oil (RUCO):

Biodiesel Production:

• UCO can be converted into biodiesel through transesterification.
• Biodiesel burns cleaner than traditional diesel and can be used in vehicles, generators, and heating systems.

Soap Making:

• Oil can be combined with lye to create eco-friendly soaps.
• A great small-business opportunity with minimal investment.

Animal Feed Additive:

• In regulated quantities, UCO can be treated and added to animal feed, particularly for livestock and poultry.

Lubricants and Industrial Grease:

• Recycled cooking oil can be used in making bio-based lubricants for machinery.

Composting (with Caution):

• In small quantities, UCO can be added to compost to help break down plant matter.
• It must be well-balanced with dry materials to avoid pests or odors.

Candle Making:

• DIY enthusiasts can reuse filtered oil to make rustic-style candles with essential oils for fragrance.

Household Uses:

• Used oil (filtered and cleaned) can be used for oiling tools, squeaky hinges, or as a rust-prevention coating.

What not to do with Used Cooking Oil?

• Don’t pour it down the drain – It can clog pipes and damage sewage systems.
• Don’t throw it in the trash – Especially in liquid form, as it can leak and contaminate soil and water.

Best Practices for Recycling UCO:

• Filter it to remove food particles.
• Store in a sealed container until you’re ready to reuse or recycle.
• Participate in local recycling programs – Many municipalities offer collection points or services.

Repurposing used cooking oil is more than just a smart recycling habit—it’s a step toward a more circular, sustainable economy. Whether turned into fuel, soap, or lubricant, UCO can be part of an innovative system that values resources, reduces pollution, and fosters green entrepreneurship.

By making simple choices in our kitchens and communities, we can contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable world.

For more information, please Chat with us Ask The Expert.