Used cooking oil theft reaches $300 million to $500 million annually

Used cooking oil theft has reached alarming levels, with an estimated value of between $300 million to $500 million in 2025, according to the North American Renderers Association (NARA). Buffalo Biodiesel, a leading company in the renewable energy sector, is urging its approximately 30,000 restaurant customers in western New York and the Northeast to enhance security measures to prevent the theft of used cooking oil, which is crucial for producing low-carbon biodiesel.

"We are seeing a significant rise in cooking oil theft, with sophisticated criminals operating in the illegal black market," stated Ryan Haggerty, Buffalo Biodiesel's chief state litigator and general counsel. "Restaurants are particularly vulnerable due to the storage of used cooking oil in unsecured bins outside, often in areas without surveillance or adequate lighting."

Recent incidents have highlighted the severity of the issue. In July, the New York State Police in Central New York apprehended suspects for stealing used cooking oil from various establishments. Additionally, on August 22nd, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of New York announced that an individual had pleaded guilty to stealing 45,000 pounds of used cooking oil, which was later sold to a refinery in Erie, Pennsylvania. Another individual pleaded guilty on September 1st after law enforcement seized approximately $140,000 in cash, a handgun, and about 12,000 gallons of stolen used cooking oil.

"The theft of used cooking oil is not just a local problem but a national issue that threatens the biodiesel sector," Haggerty explained. "Restaurants, being a prime target, need to invest in surveillance equipment and better lighting to deter potential thieves. At the same time, the sale of used cooking oil is a lucrative business for many establishments, making it an attractive target for criminals."

Haggerty also noted that profit margins in the restaurant industry are tight, making security enhancements a worthwhile investment. "By improving security, restaurant owners and operators can protect their valuable resource and prevent theft," he said.

Buffalo Biodiesel, founded in 2005 and headquartered in Buffalo, New York, plays a pivotal role in collecting and processing used cooking oil from over 30,000 restaurants across the Northeast. The company converts this material into renewable energy products and advanced carbon materials, contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions and promoting sustainable practices.

The company's efforts to warn and educate its customers come as part of a broader initiative to address the theft of used cooking oil, which is essential for the continued growth and success of the biodiesel industry.