Why Grease Traps Are the UK’s Hidden Weapon Against Fatbergs

Thames Water clearing 100 tonne fatberg October 2025

# The Fatberg Crisis: Understanding Grease Management Solutions for Commercial Kitchens

## Welcome to the Aluline Group Blog

Hello—and welcome. I’m Caroline Clark, Managing Director of Aluline Group. After 33 years leading the charge in grease management solutions, I am thrilled to launch our brand-new blog. We will dive deep, clear up myths, and lead the conversation on how to protect your drains, your business, and the environment. Ready? Let’s rock it.

The Fatberg Crisis: How Grease Became a Monster Underground

You might think fatbergs are something you hear about on the news—not in your kitchen—but it’s closer than you realize. In 2017, a single fatberg under Whitechapel in London weighed 130 tonnes and stretched 250 meters—that’s the size of Tower Bridge in length and bigger than 11 double-decker buses.

Even more recently, South West Water reported spending £3 million in 2023 to fix 6,400 blockages, 75% of which were caused by FOG—fats, oils, and grease—along with flushed sanitary items. This isn’t a distant problem—it’s happening now, every day.

Grease Traps: Your First Line of Defense

Grease traps perform one simple function—but they do it incredibly well: they keep FOG out of your drains and away from the sewer system. Whether you are running a café or a large kitchen, installing the correct grease trap means:

• FOG rises to the top.

• Solids settle out.

• Only clean water leaves the unit.

  
  

That is not just good practice—it is a legal requirement under UK law. If you are preparing food commercially, you must manage FOG effectively—or face potential environmental prosecution and fines.

The Importance of Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance of grease traps is crucial. Without it, traps can overflow, allowing FOG to enter the sewer system. This can lead to costly fines and environmental damage. Establishing a routine cleaning schedule ensures that your grease trap functions efficiently and complies with regulations.

Don’t Be Fooled: Grease Myths That Lead to Fatbergs

Let’s clear the air with some cold, hard truths:

• Myth: Hot water, soap, or detergents dissolve grease permanently.

Reality: They only move the grease further into the system, where it cools and solidifies—often worsening the problem.

• Myth: Small amounts of grease don’t matter.

Reality: Even micro-doses accumulate over time—leading directly to major blockages.

• Myth: Install a grease trap once and forget about it.

Reality: Without regular servicing, traps overflow—and FOG still ends up where it shouldn’t.

A Vision: Turning Grease into Green Energy

Here’s the exciting part: the grease caught by these traps doesn’t have to go to waste. In 2017, waste extracted from a London fatberg was processed into biodiesel—cutting emissions by over 80% compared to conventional diesel. That’s turning a public health hazard into renewable fuel.

Aluline Group Says: Let’s Do This Right

That’s why I’m here. At Aluline Group, we have solutions that:

• Fit businesses of all sizes—from boutique cafés to restaurant chains.

• Simplify grease capture with minimal fuss.

• Prioritize maintenance so traps don’t become forgotten.

  
  

Here’s our promise: We will guide you—from choosing the right size trap to setting up a cleaning schedule—and help ensure you are not just compliant, but leading in sustainable grease management.

Join the Movement

• Next time you hear "fatberg," think system, not sewer.

• Remember: Proper FOG handling protects your business, saves money, and keeps sewers—and the planet—clear.

  
  

Welcome to the front line, led by Aluline Group.

Caroline Clark, MD

33 years in the grease game and just getting started.

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