Abstract: A grinding mechanism for a food waste disposer includes a grinding ring defining a plurality of window openings therethrough. The grinding ring is received in a housing of a grinding mechanism. The grinding mechanism has a plurality of cavities therein corresponding to the window openings that are disposed outboard of the window openings. A plurality of stacked disks form a rotatable shredder plate that is situated to rotate relative to the grinding ring.

Abstract: A switching assembly for a food waste disposer includes a housing containing a switch and first and second magnets. An interlock device has third and fourth magnets. The magnets are arranged so that the switch is actuated when the first and third magnets align and the second and fourth magnets align.

Abstract: A combination interlock and stopper device for a food waste disposer includes a first end receivable in a drain opening to plug the drain opening with a first handle attached thereto. Stopping members are attached to the first end that have at least a portion thereof extending beyond the outer periphery of the first end for engaging a ledge of the drain opening. The device further includes a second end opposite the first end, with a magnet attached to the second end to selectively actuate the food waste disposer when the second end is inserted into the drain opening. A second handle is attached to the second end.