Used cooking oil, also known as waste cooking oil, is the residual oil left after cooking or frying foods. It is a renewable energy source with a higher percentage of free fatty acids than fresh oil. Its viscosity increases over time due to polymerization and oxidation reactions. It offers an economical source of animal nutrition and is widely used as a feedstock for biodiesel. It reduces greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. It provides a cost-effective raw material and is used in soap production, especially in small-scale and artisanal operations. Besides this, it helps in managing waste effectively and minimizing the environmental impact associated with its degradation.
Used cooking oil management services support a range of industries, including cosmetics, plastics, and renewable energy. The trend across these diverse applications is driven by sustainability objectives, where recycling used cooking oil plays a pivotal role in minimizing waste and reducing environmental impact.
Europe places a strong emphasis on sustainability, and this trend extends to the management of used cooking oil. It serves as a valuable feedstock for biodiesel and oleochemical production, with robust initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and promote eco-friendly practices across industries.