Purpose and Regulatory Drivers
Fats, oils, and greases (FOG) discharged from commercial cooking operations congeals in sewer lines at ambient temperatures, causing blockages, sewer overflows, and sanitary sewer system (SSS) capacity loss. Most municipal wastewater authorities enforce FOG pretreatment programs under Clean Water Act authority, requiring food service establishments (FSEs) to install and maintain grease interceptors sized to reduce FOG in the effluent to below 100–200 mg/L (jurisdiction-specific limit). Failure to comply results in fines, forced closure, and retroactive installation requirements.