What is a countertop composter?

A countertop composter is a machine designed to turn food scraps into compost within a few hours. It measures approximately 1 cubic foot and is able to sit on a kitchen countertop.

A countertop composter composts, sterilizes and deodorizes leftover food. It then turns the food into an organic, humus-rich soil additive that looks like coffee grounds. The compost is safe to use for gardening and landscaping.

Although a larger version has been produced and used for several years in hospitals and restaurants, as of March 2014, a countertop composter has not yet been mass-produced. However, Food Cycler is attempting raise money to bring a countertop composter to market.