Characterization of Vegetable Wastes Physical characteristics of solid wastes includes estimation of weight, volume, moisture, ash, total solid, volatile solid (VS), color, odor, temperature, etc. Chemical studies include the measurement of cellulose, hemicellulose , starch, reducing sugars, protein, total organic carbon, phosphorus, nitrogen, BOD, COD, pH, halogens, toxic metals, etc. Besides these biochemical parameters, carbon, phosphorous, potassium, sulfur, calcium, magnesium, etc. can also be tested. Biologic characteristics indicates the presence of pathogens and organisms which are indicators of pollution. A common feature of various forms of food wastes includes high COD, richness in protein, carbohydrate, and lipid bio-molecules with noticeable pH variation.