‘Food Scraps Recycling Drop-Offs’ Program Now in Place at Three Farmers Markets

The Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has launched its Food Scraps Recycling Drop-Offs program at three farmers markets throughout the County. Food Scraps Recycling Drop-Offs provide residents with the opportunity to recycle their food scraps through composting.

The following food scraps can be recycled at a drop-off location:

• Bread and grains
• Coffee grounds and tea leaves (remove filters)
• Cooked food
• Dairy (cheese and yogurt)
• Eggshells
• Fruit and vegetable scraps (including pumpkins)
• Meat, fish and bones

"Recycling food scraps is a simple step we can all take to reduce waste and make a positive impact on the environment,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “By offering food scraps recycling drop-offs at our farmers markets, we’re making it easier for residents to compost and support our zero-waste goals. These efforts are about changing habits and making sure more of what we get rid of gets put to good use. I encourage everyone to take advantage of this program.”

Food Scraps Recycling Drop-Offs operate during the same times as the farmers markets. Food scraps can be dropped off year-round at these three farmers markets:

• Bethesda Central Farmers Market. 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Sundays. 7600 Arlington Road, Bethesda.
• Downtown Silver Spring Market. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays. 1 Veterans Plaza, Silver Spring.
• Olney Farmers and Artists Market. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Sundays. Maryland Route 108 and Prince Phillip Drive, Olney.

Note: Visit the website for farmers markets updates and changes.

“The Food Scraps Recycling Drop-Off Program continues our progress in cutting down the amount of food scraps thrown in the trash,” said DEP Director Jon Monger. “That progress starts with each of us in our own homes and kitchens – when you make your next meal or snack – by keeping your food scraps out of the trash, we can each help the County achieve its zero waste goal and create a cleaner environment and support sustainable practices that benefit our community and future generations.”

To learn more about the County’s food scraps recycling drop-offs and other food scraps programs, visit its website.