Expired food: which bin in Germany?

Biotonne (organic waste bin). Expired food belongs in the Biotonne because it’s organic. In the Biotonne, organic waste is composted. Remove packaging first, otherwise it ends up in the Restmüll (general waste bin) or Gelber Sack (yellow bag).

Expired food disposal in Germany: which bin?

In short: Biotonne (organic waste bin). Expired food belongs in the Biotonne because it’s organic.

Food

Confidence: high · Place: Germany · Last checked: September 2026

Biotonne (organic waste bin)

Why

Expired food belongs in the Biotonne because it’s organic.
In the Biotonne, organic waste is composted.
Remove packaging first, otherwise it ends up in the Restmüll (general waste bin) or Gelber Sack (yellow bag).

Some local authorities require heavily processed food to go in the general waste.

varies by local authority

Before you throw it away

Remove all packaging, if possible.
Place the unpackaged food in the Biotonne.

What you can make from it

CompostingFruit, vegetables, bread, cooked leftovers1–2 hours per week

Collect organic waste in a compost bin or container.
Mix it regularly with garden waste for better decomposition.

Make pet foodUnseasoned, unspoiled food leftovers30 minutes

Check if the leftovers are suitable for your pet.
Chop them up and mix with shop-bought pet food.

Expired food disposal in Germany

Why

Before you throw it away

What you can make from it

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