Cashing in on lucrative second life of used cooking oils
With prices reaching up to RM3 per kilo, what was once considered a waste product is now transforming into a valuable asset for these businesses.
A survey of food outlets in Ampang revealed that many small food traders find this practice not only financially rewarding but also a cleaner, more responsible way to dispose of oil.
Muhammad Syaari Suprid, a restaurant owner, has been selling used cooking oil for five years.
'It's a good way to earn extra money. Buyers typically drive around and ask if we have any to sell,' he said when interviewed at his shop in Ampang yesterday.
The prices he receives vary between RM2.50 and RM3 per kilo.
'We sell between 100kg and 150kg of used oil every fortnight,' he noted.
Norhafeezu Mohd Nasir, who operates a nasi kukus stall, has also been engaged in this trade for three years.
'The used oil is filtered and transferred into smaller containers for collection,' she said.
She added that prices range from RM2 to RM3 per kilo, with cash payment upon collection by a community representative.
Azlina Rashid, another vendor at an Ampang food court, learned about the trade through her local community.
'We use the oil two to three times before storing and selling it,' she said.
A trader known only as Adi said collectors frequently visit shop lots to inquire about oil availability.
'They have their own equipment to collect and weigh the oil,' he added.
Hillton Lee, co-founder of Recircle, highlighted the environmental and economic benefits of selling used cooking oil.
'It prevents improper disposal like pouring oil into drains, which causes pollution and clogs sewage systems. It turns waste into a valuable, reusable resource,' Lee said.
Recircle aims to simplify recycling through a digital app, enabling users to schedule pick-ups, track contributions and earn rewards.
The majority of collected oil is repurposed for biofuel production, such as biodiesel.
'Used cooking oil can also be transformed into handmade soaps, candles or cleaning products, often crafted by small businesses or eco-conscious households,' Lee added.
'By giving used oil a second life, we support a circular economy, promote responsible waste management and reduce environmental impact, one bottle at a time.'
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