US state cracks down on used cooking oil theft

The US state of North Carolina has imposed a new state law to discourage people from stealing used cooking oil, a potential feedstock in the production of biofuels.

It has been revealed by local press that used restaurant grease taken by thieves is a hot commodity as it is proffered to the biofuels market.

However the state’s new grease law now makes the act a misdemeanour and culprits will be hit with a felony charge if found in possession of more than $1,000 (€768) worth of product.