Why should you not put meat in compost?
Michael King
Updated on March 02, 2026
While cooked meat is unlikely to cause this problem, raw meat can be contaminated with a number of bacteria that will thrive in the warm, humid environment of a compost heap. These include E. coli, Campylobacter, Salmonella, and Listeria bacteria, all of which are harmful to humans.
Why is meat not good for compost?
The EPA recommends against composting meat, whether in a pile or bin, because it can create rodent infestations and attract pests (and cause a very unpleasant smell). Raw meat can also be particularly harmful, as it could be infected with E. coli or salmonella.What should you not put in compost?
7 Things You Shouldn't Compost
- MEAT & MILK PRODUCTS. While meat and dairy products are perfectly biodegradable, they can attract unwanted pests to your backyard or green bin. ...
- BAKED GOODS. ...
- TREATED SAWDUST. ...
- HIGHLY ACIDIC FOODS. ...
- OILS & GREASY FOOD. ...
- PET & HUMAN waste. ...
- WEEDS.