<p>Fat, oil, and grease (FOGs) are a significant challenge for water management services. FOG in wastewater is generated by the increasing number of food service establishments (FSEs), as well as the pharmaceutical industry. It is estimated that approximately 30–40% of sewer clogs are caused by deposits of FOG in sewer pipes, which results in increased annual maintenance expenses for sewer management. FSEs are required to recover FOG at the point of generation by installing grease interceptors (GIs) before releasing wastewater into the sewer system, thereby restricting the amount of FOG that is deposited. The successful control of FOG deposition is largely dependent on gaining a thorough understanding of its intricate features, pretreatment methods, and deposition mechanisms, as well as increasing public awareness of the issue. For the purpose of providing an overview of the components and characteristics of FOGs, this review is presented. Additionally, it critically discusses the potential sources of FOGs, the effects of FOGs on sewage systems, and the problems that are associated with wastewater treatment plants. In addition, it evaluates the mechanisms that are responsible for the deposition of FOG as well as potential control techniques. Various key removal procedures, such as physical, chemical, and biological approaches, have been described in this review. In order to help in the process of developing a sustainable urban environment, it is necessary to evaluate the progress that has been made in terms of procedures and techniques in order to identify the future evolution of FOG waste management.</p> Graphical abstract <p></p>