Grease theft is now a $75 million problem

Used cooking oil (UCO), once considered a simple by-product, has become a vital feedstock for renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel. As global demand for cleaner energy rises, so does the value of UCO, making it an increasingly attractive target for theft. What was once discarded is now “liquid gold," and thieves know it. 

The problem: A rising black market 

The renewable energy boom has fueled a thriving black market for UCO. Thieves target restaurant storage bins and steal oil that was meant to be responsibly recycled. These crimes often go unnoticed yet collectively generate millions of dollars for criminals each year. In many cases, theft happens late at night with criminals using unmarked trucks to quickly take UCO before operators even realize it’s gone. The impact is broad and costly:

• Revenue loss for restaurants and foodservice operators who depend on rebates or credits from their oil.
• Operational disruptions when containers are tampered with, damaged or left unsecured.
• Environmental harm when stolen oil is improperly disposed of, creating pollution and safety hazards.

With more than $75 million worth of used cooking oil stolen every year in the U.S., operators need more than just traditional containers; they need a smarter, more secure solution.

The solution: DarLinQ™ technology

To meet this challenge, DAR PRO Solutions developed DarLinQ™, a patented, high-tech system designed to protect and optimize UCO collection. DarLinQ™ acts as a digital security system for the oil, ensuring it is collected safely, accurately accounted for and recycled responsibly. It represents the next generation of oil management, combining security with transparency to give operators peace of mind. 

Key features 

• 24/7 monitoring — DarLinQ™ continuously tracks oil levels, always giving operators full visibility into their storage tanks. 
• Smart theft prevention — Patented theft-prevention measures and real-time alerts, deter unauthorized access and flag suspicious activity immediately. 
• Verified collection — Only authorized DAR PRO Solutions' service trucks can service DarLinQ™ containers. 
• Operational efficiency —  Automated data allows for optimized collection schedules, reduced overflow risk and maximized oil recovery for recycling.

Protecting oil, advancing sustainability

DarLinQ™ does more than just secure UCO, it ensures that every gallon collected is used to power a cleaner future. By keeping UCO out of the black market and in the hands of trusted recyclers, DarLinQ™ helps restaurant owners protect their revenue while contributing directly to renewable fuel production.

With DarLinQ™, that liquid gold is no longer vulnerable, it’s safeguarded, accounted for and put to work creating sustainable energy. For operators, that means more than protection, it means confidence, efficiency and a partnership in building a greener future.

To reach our sales team email or call us at 855-DAR-PRO1.