I'm in Virginia and I use plastic 55 gal drums with no issues. They stay full all winter and do freeze but the barrels handle it. I did crack the spigot once because I used a brass one but that has been the only real downside.
Its poop. The composting process should break down most toxins, if your really concerned about it, mix it with other non-bat compost to reduce any concentrations. It shouldn't be a problem though.
I have a nesco that I have used to dehydrate fruit and jerky for years with no issue. I wish there was a timer so I could turn it off at a certain time, sometimes the jerky gets too dry. Other than that I love it.
