The Surprising Rise of Beef Tallow: Why Everyone’s Ditching Seed Oils
It turns out that in a world that is obsessed with avocado, coconut, and olive oils, beef tallow—traditionally rendered cow fat—is making a resurgence today.
This ancient cooking fat has returned to prominence after being neglected in favor of contemporary seed oils.
Everyone is talking about social media.
In it, wellness influencers are making mistakes. It's even being slathered on the faces of skincare enthusiasts.
Why, then, is beef tallow being used by everyone?
It's a throwback movement that draws inspiration from the ancient, primal ways of eating and living, not just a fad.
Let's explore how beef tallow became a cult favorite and why so many people are giving up seed oils.
What is Beef Tallow, Anyway?
Beef tallow is a rendered form of beef fat, typically from the kidneys and loins (also known as suet).
Once purified and melted down, it becomes a smooth, creamy fat that can be used for cooking, baking, moisturizing, and even candle-making.
Back in the day, beef tallow was the default fat for frying, roasting, and flavoring.
Fast food giants like McDonald's even used it to make their fries until the 1990s.
But then came the war on saturated fat, and tallow, along with butter and lard, was replaced by vegetable and seed oils.
Today, the narrative is changing again—and fast.
Why Seed Oils Are Falling Out of Favor
Seed oils like canola, soybean, corn, and sunflower were once marketed as “heart-healthy” alternatives.
But now, many health-conscious consumers are rethinking that story. Here’s why:
High in Omega-6 Fatty Acids
Excessive omega-6 intake (especially without a balance of omega-3s) is linked to inflammation (1).
Seed oils are heavily skewed toward omega-6s, potentially leading to chronic inflammation in the body.
Ultra-Processed
Most seed oils require industrial processing—think chemical solvents (like hexane), deodorization, and high-heat extraction.
The result? Highly refined oils that may contain oxidation byproducts and trans fats (2).
Linked to Metabolic Disorders
Some researchers and physicians believe the widespread use of seed oils contributes to rising rates of obesity, insulin resistance, and autoimmune issues (3).
While the science is still emerging, many are opting to err on the side of caution.
Stability Issues
Seed oils are unstable when exposed to heat, light, and air, making them prone to oxidation.
This instability makes them less suitable for high-heat cooking.
The Nutritional Profile of Beef Tallow
Despite being vilified in the past, beef tallow is surprisingly nutrient-rich:
- Saturated fat—Stable at high temperatures, excellent for cooking.
- Monounsaturated fat (Oleic acid)—the same healthy fat found in olive oil.
- Fat-soluble vitamins – Including A, D, E, and K2 when sourced from grass-fed cattle.
- Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA)—May have anti-inflammatory and fat-burning benefits (4).
It’s also free of trans fats and additives if made naturally—something that can’t be said for many processed seed oils.
Top Benefits of Using Beef Tallow
Tallow makes food taste incredible—crispy potatoes, juicy steaks, golden fried eggs.
Its high smoke point (~400°F/205°C) makes it perfect for frying and sautéing without the risk of burning or oxidizing.
Better for Your Metabolism
Thanks to its stability and nutrient content, tallow is easier for your body to process than refined seed oils.
Some nutritionists suggest it may support hormonal health and energy levels.
Skincare Secret Weapon
Tallow closely resembles the natural oils of human skin (called sebum).
That makes it a top-tier moisturizer, especially for sensitive, dry, or eczema-prone skin.
Sustainability & Nose-to-Tail Eating
Using tallow honors the whole animal.
It supports regenerative agriculture, reduces waste, and promotes a more sustainable food system.
Grass-Fed = Extra Benefits
Grass-fed tallow has even more nutrients, like CLA and vitamins, compared to conventional versions.
It’s the premium choice for those chasing optimal wellness.
How to Use Beef Tallow in Daily Life
In the kitchen: Fry, roast, and sauté. Think crispy hash browns, roasted carrots, or fried chicken.
In your beauty routine: Use it as a moisturizer, balm, or even a base for DIY skincare.
In candle-making or soap: Yes, it’s that versatile.
As a butter alternative: Spread it on toast or use it to flavor popcorn.
For oil pulling (in rare cases): Some holistic practitioners use tallow as a natural mouth cleanser.
The Internet’s Role in the Tallow Revival
TikTokers are cooking steak in it. Paleo chefs are raving. Biohackers are using it to boost brain health.
Tallow isn’t just a food—it’s a lifestyle statement.
What started as a niche movement is now catching fire.
Influencers like Paul Saladino (CarnivoreMD) and Mark Sisson have helped popularize animal-based eating, where tallow plays a central role.
But What About Cholesterol and Heart Health?
Great question.
The fear of saturated fat dates back to the mid-20th century, largely influenced by flawed studies.
Newer research suggests that
- Not all saturated fats are the same.
- Dietary cholesterol doesn't equal blood cholesterol (5).
- Seed oils may play a larger role in heart issues than once believed.
Even the American Heart Association is softening its stance.
While moderation is key, context matters—especially if you’re replacing processed oils with a traditional fat like tallow.
Where to Buy (or Make) Beef Tallow
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Online: Brands like Epic, Fatworks, and Primal Pastures offer high-quality options.
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Local farms: Ask your butcher or visit farmers’ markets.
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DIY: Render your own from grass-fed beef suet. It’s surprisingly easy (and satisfying).
To Finish
Beef tallow’s comeback is more than just nostalgia—it’s a conscious choice to return to simpler, cleaner, and more natural fats.
Whether you’re cooking for flavor, eating ancestrally, or searching for skincare gold, this old-school fat might just be the upgrade your lifestyle needs.
✨Level up your cooking and skincare routine with beef tallow—your grandmother would be proud! 🐄
FAQs on The Surprising Rise of Beef Tallow
Is beef tallow healthier than olive oil?
They serve different purposes. Olive oil is great raw, while tallow is better for high-heat cooking.
Does beef tallow taste like beef?
Not really. It has a mild, almost buttery flavor when rendered properly.
Can I use beef tallow if I’m dairy-free or on keto?
Absolutely! It’s lactose-free and 100% keto-friendly.
Is beef tallow safe for skincare?
Yes—especially if it’s pure and grass-fed. Always patch test first.
How should I store beef tallow?
Keep it in an airtight container. It’s shelf-stable for weeks, or longer if refrigerated.
Related Studies
1. Title: Regulation of Adipose Tissue Biology by Long-Chain Fatty Acids
This study indicates that high intake of omega-6 fatty acids can promote inflammation through their conversion to pro-inflammatory eicosanoids.
Link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9284576/
2. Title: Sesame oil: An ex vivo study of properties against oxidation of plasma low-density lipoproteins and total serum lipoproteins
This study demonstrates that sesame oil can resist oxidation, suggesting that processing methods significantly affect oil stability and the formation of harmful byproducts.
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28499909/
3. Title: Tea seed saponin-reduced extract ameliorates palmitic acid-induced insulin resistance in HepG2 cells
This research shows that certain seed oil extracts can mitigate insulin resistance, highlighting the complex role of seed oils in metabolic health.
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38099345/
4. Title: The effects of conjugated linoleic acids on the prevention and treatment of metabolic syndrome: a review
This review discusses how CLA, particularly from grass-fed sources, may have anti-inflammatory and fat-reducing properties beneficial for metabolic health.
Link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4964663/
5. Title: Cardiovascular disease: risk assessment and reduction, including lipid modification
This comprehensive review suggests that the relationship between dietary saturated fat, cholesterol, and heart disease is more nuanced than previously thought, challenging earlier assumptions.
Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK602492/bin/methods-for-evidence-reviews-a-to-c-pdf.pdf
