Composting and Allergies
Over this past year our area distributed small composting bins (mainly for kitchen scraps) which in theory is a great idea but in practice, especially for those with allergies, sensitivities and asthma it can raise a few concerns.
Consider this, there are many types of mold and fungi that can grow on our so called "food scraps" and some of these can cause allergic responses. The article, "Composting Health Considerations" by Tom Richard and the article, "Pathogens Dealing with harmful fungi and bacteria that can get into your compost" both explain some of the risks.
For example, did you know that there is a particular fungus called Aspergillus fumigatus which can cause a number of mostly respiratory diseases that range from mild to deadly? It can cause infection in the lungs as well as asthmatic reactions. Of course those who are at most risk are those with asthma and allergies, those who are immune compromised, or those taking certain medications such as antibiotics.
The American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology suggests that if you have food allergies and your doing the composting always wear a mask and gloves to avoid inhalation of an allergen and any contact with skin. They even recommend wearing long sleeves if needed and making sure any scratches or wounds are covered.
Some of the websites I've been researching suggest putting the food scraps in the freezer until collection day. We used to always do this with the smellier food scraps in the regular garbage (especially in the summer time) but we would use old recycled plastic bags. Unfortunately, you can't put plastic bags in the compost or even compostable plastic bags, at least in our area. If you have limited freezer space putting even a small compost bucket in the freezer isn't an option either. And, even if you did have room in the freezer would you actually remember to take it out early enough? Or would it most likely still be frozen when it gets picked up?
So although it's a great idea, caution and waying the risks for yourself and those who may be exposed is definitely worth the effort.
Sources:
- "Composting Health Considerations" by Tom Richard - compost.css.cornell.edu/health.html
- crd.bc.ca/crhc/tenant-information/maintenance-information/garbage-recycling-and-kitchen-scraps
- "Composting and Food Allergies: Take Care of the Environment and Yourself "- aaaai.org/tools-for-the-public/conditions-library/allergies/composting-and-food-allergies-take-care-of-the-env#:~:text=If%20you%20are%20food%20allergic,have%20scratches%20or%20open%20wounds.
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