Ingredient

Beef Tallow

Positive in 7 products

What is Beef Tallow?

Beef tallow is a rendered form of beef fat that has been used historically in cooking and for making soap and candles. Rendering involves slowly cooking the fat to separate it from connective tissue, yielding a solid form at room temperature.

Beef tallow is often used for frying and baking due to its high smoke point and savory flavor. In the past, it was a common cooking fat before being replaced by vegetable oils. The health evidence on beef tallow is mixed; while it is a source of saturated fats, some claim that it is more stable than many processed oils and may be less prone to oxidation.

When you see beef tallow on a label, it typically implies a focus on traditional or natural ingredients, but it's important to consider the saturated fat content in your dietary choices.

Commonly found in: Frying oils, Baked goods, Processed foods, Soaps, Candles

What to watch

Excessive consumption can contribute to increased levels of LDL cholesterol due to its high saturated fat content.

Benefits

High smoke point makes it suitable for frying, reducing the formation of harmful compounds.

FDA

Beef tallow is considered GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by the FDA when used in food.

Research

Studies show mixed findings; while it's high in saturated fats, some research highlights its stability compared to processed oils.

Vegan

Beef tallow is derived from animals, making it unsuitable for vegan diets.

Sources: Food Additive Status List

Scout's take

Grass-fed animal fat rich in fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, K2, and CLA. Replaces seed oils entirely — one of the cleanest commercial fats available.

More from Scout's analyses

Beef tallow is a traditional cooking fat that is high in saturated fats, which are stable at high temperatures. It is often sourced from grass-fed cattle, providing a better fatty acid profile. Compared to seed oils, it contains less omega-6 fatty acids, reducing potential inflammatory effects.

from the analysis of Norsechips Chips

Beef tallow is a traditional cooking fat that is rich in saturated fats. It is minimally processed and can be a source of fat-soluble vitamins if derived from grass-fed cattle. Compared to seed oils, it has a more stable fat profile for cooking.

from the analysis of Beefy's Own Beef tallow Potato Chips Salt N'Vinegar

Beef tallow is a rich source of energy-dense fat that provides fat-soluble vitamins. It is stable and resistant to oxidation, making it a beneficial ingredient for skin health.

from the analysis of Vigority Mineral & Tallow Sunscreen