Abstract: A method and apparatus for reducing food and grease in a wastewater stream from a food service facility. Vacuum is supplied to a suction hose, which is used to remove food and grease from plates and utensils prior to these being introduced into the water flow. The food and grease is collected in a waste container for separate disposal. The suction hose may be fitted with a scrubber head for breaking up and removing the materials. The vacuum may be supplied by an air pressure operated vacuum transducer, or by an exhaust blower. The invention thus solves the problem of high BOD, FOG and TSS levels in wastewater streams from food service facilities, which generate excessive loads on both on-site septic systems and municipal waste water treatment plants.