The invention involves an automatic shut-off waste disposer that may be activated with a control module, which utilizes a programmable automatic shut-off routine. This enables a user to turn on the garbage disposer and walk away without having to turn the disposer off. In exemplary embodiments, activation of the disposer includes actuation of a solenoid valve for injecting a stream of water flow into the dispenser chamber in order to facilitate a proper water flow while the disposer is actively disposing of food waste. In some exemplary embodiments, activation of the disposer may be achieved via a user-activated pneumatic actuator, which may be installed in proximity to the sink to which the disposer is coupled. In some exemplary embodiments, the disposer implements a sensor for automatically shutting of a motor of the disposer upon a predetermined event.