How to Choose the Best Cooking Oil Recycling Partner in BC

McLeod’s turns used oil into sustainable livestock feed

For restaurants across British Columbia, disposing used cooking oil isn’t just about waste disposal, it’s an opportunity to contribute to a greener future and even enhance your bottom line! At McLeod's Byproducts, we've been helping businesses in Northern BC, Interior BC and the Vancouver Islands do exactly that since 1978, transforming used cooking oil into valuable ingredients for sustainable livestock feed.

But with several options out there, how do you choose the right cooking oil recycling partner for your establishment? Here's what to look for:

1. Reliability and Consistency: No More Overflowing Bins!

Your kitchen is a busy place, and the last thing you need to worry about is an overflowing used cooking oil bin. A dependable recycling partner will offer consistent, scheduled pickups that align with your volume of oil usage. While companies like Redux and Ergo Eco also aim for timely service, it's crucial to ask about:

• Pickup Frequency: Can they accommodate your needs, whether you're a high-volume fryer or a smaller cafe?

• Emergency Service: What happens if you fill up faster than expected? Do they offer prompt, unscheduled pickups?

• Equipment Provided: Do they supply appropriate, clean, and well-maintained collection containers?

At McLeod’s, we pride ourselves on free, dependable, year-round cooking oil pickup service across most of BC, ensuring your used oil is collected efficiently and without hassle, so you can focus on what you do best.

2. Environmental Impact: Where Does Your Oil Go?

This is where your choice truly makes a difference. Not all cooking oil recyclers process the oil in the same way, and the end-use can vary. Ask prospective partners:

• What is the end product? Some companies, like Redux, focus heavily on biodiesel production. Ergo Eco also has a strong environmental focus. At McLeod's, our primary focus is on converting purified oil into Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) inspected and approved high-quality ingredients for sustainable livestock feed. This direct contribution to the agricultural sector offers a unique environmental benefit.

• Certifications and Regulations: Are they federally inspected and approved? For us, our purified oil is CFIA inspected and approved. Understanding their compliance ensures safety and quality in the end product.

• Zero-Waste Approach: Do they handle any solid waste removed during processing responsibly? We compost all solid material, turning it into nutrient-rich soil, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

3. Transparency and Communication: Keeping You Informed

A strong partnership is built on clear communication. Your recycling partner should be easy to reach and transparent about their processes. Consider:

• Ease of Contact: Can you easily schedule pickups, ask questions, or report an issue?

• Service Reporting: Do they offer any reporting or tracking of your recycled volume?

• Customer Service: Do they offer a dedicated contact or quick response times for inquiries?

4. Experience and Expertise: A Proven Track Record

An experienced partner understands the nuances of cooking oil collection and recycling. While Redux and Ergo Eco are established players, it's important to evaluate their history and local presence.

• Years in Business: How long have they been serving the BC market? McLeod's Byproducts has been a leader in the industry since 1978, with over four decades of dedicated service to BC businesses.

• Local Knowledge: Do they understand the specific needs and regulations of BC businesses? As a locally owned and operated company based in Armstrong, BC, we know the province inside and out.

• Industry Connections: Do they have established relationships within the agri-food sector, ensuring a robust and sustainable end-use for your recycled oil? Being a subsidiary of Ritchie Smith Feeds and a sister company to Sure Crop Feeds means we're deeply integrated into the province's largest livestock feed manufacturing group, guaranteeing a stable and valuable destination for your used oil.

5. Cost and Value: Beyond Just the Price Tag

While cost is always a factor, consider the overall value proposition.

• Free Service: Many reputable recyclers, including Redux, Ergo Eco, and McLeod's, offer free pickup services. This turns a waste expense into a no-cost, eco-friendly solution.

• Hidden Fees: Be sure to clarify if there are any charges for bins, emergency pickups, or other services.

• Benefits Beyond Cost: Remember the environmental benefits, the reduced risk of plumbing issues from improper disposal, and the positive brand image associated with sustainable practices.

Choosing the right cooking oil recycling partner is more than just finding someone to haul away your waste. It's about forging a partnership that aligns with your business's values, contributes to a healthier environment, and supports a circular economy here in British Columbia.

Ready to partner with McLeod’s Byproducts for your cooking oil recycling needs? Contact us today to learn more and schedule your free pickup!