What Food Scraps Can Go Into a Compost Bin? The Ultimate Guide to Composting

Introduction

Are you wondering what food scraps you can compost to reduce waste and create nutrient-rich soil for your garden? Composting is an eco-friendly way to recycle organic waste, cut down on landfill contributions, and improve soil health. But not all food scraps are suitable for composting.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll break down the best food items for composting, what to avoid, and how to maintain a healthy compost bin.

Why Composting Food Waste Matters

Every year, Australians generate millions of tonnes of food waste, much of which ends up in landfill. This waste produces methane, a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. By composting your food scraps, you can:

1. Reduce your household waste
2. Improve soil structure and fertility
3. Support beneficial microorganisms in your garden
4. Reduce reliance on chemical fertilisers

What Food Can Go Into a Compost Bin?

When composting, it's essential to balance “greens” (nitrogen-rich materials) and “browns” (carbon-rich materials) to ensure efficient decomposition.

Best Food Scraps for Composting

1. Fruit and Vegetable Scraps

Fresh produce waste is ideal for composting and decomposes quickly. Some great options include:

• Peels and skins – Banana, orange, potato, carrot, and more
• Cores and rinds – Apple cores, melon rinds, pumpkin shells
• Leafy greens and stems – Lettuce, kale, broccoli stems
• Overripe or spoiled produce – Soft or bruised fruits and vegetables

2. Coffee Grounds and Tea Leaves

Used coffee grounds are rich in nitrogen and help balance compost pH.

Tea leaves (from loose tea or biodegradable tea bags) also enrich compost.

Paper coffee filters and paper tea bags can be added but avoid synthetic ones.

3. Eggshells

Crushed eggshells provide calcium, benefiting plant growth.

They break down slowly, so crushing them speeds up decomposition.

4. Bread, Rice, and Pasta (In Small Amounts)

Stale bread, plain cooked rice, and pasta can be composted.

Avoid adding large amounts, as they can attract pests or become too sticky.

5. Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds add valuable nutrients but take longer to decompose.

Crush or grind them for faster breakdown.

6. Cereal and Crackers

Dry cereals and crackers (without artificial additives) are compostable.

Avoid those with excessive sugar or preservatives.

7. Spoiled Dairy (Use with Caution)

Small amounts of milk, yoghurt, and cheese can be composted but may attract pests.

Only add to a well-managed, properly aerated compost bin.

8. Herbs and Spices

Old herbs and spices can be composted and may even deter pests.

Avoid excessive amounts of strong spices, as they may disrupt microbial activity.

Foods to Avoid in a Compost Bin

Certain food items can cause odours, attract pests, or slow down decomposition. Avoid these materials:

• Meat, fish, and bones – They decompose slowly and attract rodents.
• Greasy or oily foods – These can create a barrier, preventing airflow.
• Processed foods with high salt or sugar content – They alter compost pH.
• Citrus peels in large amounts – Can be too acidic for some compost systems.
• Onions and garlic in excess – May deter earthworms and beneficial microbes.

How to Maintain a Healthy Compost Bin

1. Balance Greens and Browns

To maintain an effective compost bin, balance greens (food scraps, grass clippings, coffee grounds) with browns (dry leaves, cardboard, newspaper).

2. Chop Food Scraps for Faster Decomposition

Cutting up food scraps before composting helps speed up the breakdown process.

3. Turn the Compost Regularly

Aerate your compost by turning it every 1-2 weeks to prevent bad odours and speed up decomposition.

4. Keep the Right Moisture Level

Compost should feel like a wrung-out sponge – not too dry, not too wet.

If it’s too dry, add water or fresh food scraps. If it’s too wet, mix in dry leaves or shredded cardboard.

5. Use a Compost Bin That Suits Your Space

Backyard compost bins work well for larger gardens.

For smaller spaces, click here to view our Zero Waste Composting Bundle!

Final Thoughts: Start Composting Today!

By composting food scraps, you’re taking a simple yet powerful step towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle. Whether you have a backyard compost bin or a small indoor setup, making composting a habit can benefit both the environment and your garden.

Want More Composting Tips?

Stay tuned for more eco-friendly living advice, gardening tips, and composting hacks!