Abstract: Since the implementation of mandatory municipal solid waste classification in China in 2017, numerous cities have achieved remarkable progress. However, shortcomings remain in the accuracy of sorted collection and the construction and operation of terminal pretreatment facilities. China’s vast territory and diverse regional living habits result in significant variations in the characteristics of classified food waste, forcing the pretreatment systems of terminal processing facilities to navigate complex operational conditions. Based on food waste treatment cases from three representative cities, this study comparatively analyzes the variations in food waste composition and evaluates the operational performance of pretreatment systems. The aim is to provide theoretical support and practical guidance for the engineering design of food waste treatment facilities.