Tallow is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, thanks to its wide-ranging health benefits, versatility, and alignment with ancestral diets. Whether you're new to tallow or looking to deepen your understanding, this comprehensive guide covers everything from its history to its modern uses, comparisons to seed oils, and the latest research on its health impacts.
Tallow is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, thanks to its wide-ranging health benefits, versatility, and alignment with ancestral diets. Whether you're new to tallow or looking to deepen your understanding, this comprehensive guide covers everything from its history to its modern uses, comparisons to seed oils, and the latest research on its health impacts.
What is tallow?
Tallow is rendered fat, primarily derived from beef or other ruminant animals such as bison, lamb, or goat. Traditionally, tallow was a staple in kitchens and households worldwide, valued for its stability, long shelf life, and versatility in cooking, skincare, and even candle-making.
Rendering tallow involves slowly heating animal fat to separate the pure fat from water and connective tissue. The result is a nutrient-dense, shelf-stable fat that’s solid at room temperature but melts easily when heated.


The Health Benefits of Tallow
Nutrient Density
Tallow is a rich source of fat-soluble vitamins, including:
- Vitamin A: Supports vision, immune function, and skin health.2
- Vitamin D: Vital for bone health, immune function, and hormone regulation.
- Vitamin K2: Works synergistically with Vitamin D for bone and cardiovascular health.
- Vitamin E: A powerful antioxidant that protects against oxidative stress.
Rich in Healthy Fats
Tallow contains:
- Saturated fats: Promote cell membrane integrity and hormone production.
- Monounsaturated fats: Support heart health and reduce inflammation.
- Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids: In a balanced ratio, essential for brain and cardiovascular health.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Unlike seed oils, which are high in pro-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids, tallow’s balanced fat profile helps reduce inflammation.1
Skin Health
Tallow is a traditional remedy for:
- Moisturizing dry, cracked skin.
- Supporting skin barrier function.
- Providing anti-aging benefits through its Vitamin E and fatty acid content.

100% Grass-Fed Beef Tallow
Summary of Benefits
The Uses of Tallow

Cooking
Tallow is a rich source of fat-soluble vitamins, including:
- Vitamin A: Supports vision, immune function, and skin health.❷
- Vitamin D: Vital for bone health, immune function, and hormone regulation.
- Vitamin K2: Works synergistically with Vitamin D for bone and cardiovascular health.
- Vitamin E: A powerful antioxidant that protects against oxidative stress.
Skincare
Tallow contains:
- Saturated fats: Promote cell membrane integrity and hormone production.
- Monounsaturated fats: Support heart health and reduce inflammation.
- Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids: In a balanced ratio, essential for brain and cardiovascular health.
Household Uses
Unlike seed oils, which are high in pro-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids, tallow’s balanced fat profile helps reduce inflammation.❶
Pros
Cons
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Sources Cited
- "The Role of Saturated Fats in Human Health," Nutrients, 2021.
- "Impact of Omega-6 Fatty Acids on Inflammation," The Journal of Lipid Research, 2022.
- Dr. Paul Saladino’s insights on ancestral diets and tallow: Paul Saladino, MD
- Weston A. Price Foundation: "Traditional Uses of Tallow."