Grease theft is a growing problem as the demand for used cooking oil (UCO) increases. Thieves often disguise themselves as legitimate recyclers, targeting restaurants and other establishments that have a UCO container. It’s estimated that every year, nearly $75 million of UCO is stolen. [1]
While it may seem weird to steal UCO, in today’s market, UCO is considered liquid gold. Its value lies in its use for renewable fuel production, animal feed, and consumer products, making it an attractive target for criminals. There’s a lucrative black market that attracts thieves who can haul in thousands of dollars a day. [2] As grease theft continues to grow, restaurants and businesses should take steps to secure their UCO. Every pound of UCO lost to grease theft is a threat to a restaurant’s bottom line.
The Impacts of UCO Theft
UCO theft has rippling effects for the businesses affected, the restaurant industry, and the natural environment. The following are the main impacts of UCO theft:
- Financial loss: UCO theft prevents foodservice businesses from selling their UCO which can result in a loss of revenue. Businesses may also have to pay to repair or replace equipment that was damaged by the thieves and clean up grease spills.
- Business disruptions:UCO theft can disrupt daily business activities as businesses may need time to repair or replace damaged equipment and invest in increased security measures.
- Threat to employee and customer safety: UCO thievescan compromise the safety of your employees and customers as they use dangerous methods to access and transport grease which can cause spills and accidents.
- Environmental issues: UCO thieves typically do not have the proper equipment to store, transport, or render UCOsafely. This can result in spills that harm the natural environment, and they may dump grease which can cause blockages and damage within the sewer system and contaminate natural waterways. Illegal grease rendering methods contribute to global warming by releasing carbon dioxide into the air.
Preventing Grease Theft
Preventing grease theft starts with awareness. By keeping an eye out for suspicious activity around UCO containers and ensuring proper security measures are in place, your business can protect your UCO. Awareness and quick action are key to deterring theft and maintaining a safe, compliant operation. Here’s what you can do to protect your business from these criminals:
Know Your Service Provider’s Trucks
Grease thieves often operate by blending in with actual recycling service providers. To prevent unauthorized pickups, familiarize yourself and your employees with the branded trucks and uniforms used by your legitimate grease collection provider. [3] This makes it easier to spot suspicious vehicles attempting to steal your used cooking oil.
Secure Your Grease Containers
If your grease tank is enclosed within a corral, make sure it is always locked when not in use. Consider adding an extra layer of security measures such as heavy-duty padlocks and reinforced barriers to deter theft.
Install Security Cameras
A restaurant might not even realize they have been victimized if they don’t monitor their video surveillance systems or check their storage containers regularly. [4] Position at least one security camera to monitor your grease container. Surveillance footage can serve as crucial evidence in identifying and prosecuting thieves.
Report Suspicious Activity
Train your employees to recognize potential theft and encourage them to act quickly if they see something suspicious. Key details to report include:
- License plate number
- Vehicle Make, Model, Color
- Business name on the driver’s door
- Direction of travel
- Any other distinguishing features
Call the Police
If you or your employees witness a potential grease theft, report it to the authorities immediately. Avoid direct confrontation, as these individuals may be dangerous.
Contact Mahoney Environmental for Security Options
At Mahoney Environmental, we take grease theft seriously. We have a dedicated team that collaborates with law enforcement to track down and prosecute unauthorized haulers. If you suspect your business has been targeted, reach out to us for guidance on securing your grease containers and preventing further theft.
Earn Rewards for Reporting Grease Thieves
Mahoney Environmental offers cash rewards for information leading to the arrest and conviction of grease thieves:
- $500 Rewardfor a misdemeanor conviction ($250 for arrest + $250 for conviction)
- $1,000 Rewardfor a felony conviction ($500 for arrest + $500 for conviction)
Who is Eligible?
All Mahoney customers can participate in the rewards program. Rewards are granted per vehicle involved, not per person. Get Your Employees Involved
Encourage your team to stay vigilant. If your business has been targeted once, the thieves will likely return. By educating employees on what to watch for and taking proactive security measures, you can help prevent future theft.
Protect your business by staying alert and reporting suspicious activity. Together, we can combat grease theft and hold criminals accountable.
UCO Collection and Recycling from Mahoney Environmental
Owners of foodservice businesses and restaurant managers must be aware of the prevalence of UCO theft and take action to protect their business. Following the tips above may be enough to deter thieves and save your business the time, money, and trouble of dealing with the aftermath of grease theft.
Working with a professional like Mahoney Environmental provides extra protection against grease theft as we can help ensure the efficiency and security of your cooking oil equipment and storage containers. We work with businesses to design and install cooking oil equipment, to safely and efficiently handle cooking oil. We also offer regular UCO pickup and recycling services which prevents your storage containers from becoming full and making them an attractive target for thieves.
To learn more about how we can help you deter UCO theft, call Mahoney Environmental at (800) 892-9392.
[3] – www.tbrnewsmedia.com/cooking-oil-theft-is-no-laughing-matter/
[4] – www.wkrn.com/news/local-news/thieves-caught-stealing-used-cooking-oil-from-mid-south-restaurants/
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