In a world constantly shifting between the latest food trends and health fads, beef tallow has re-emerged as one of the more polarizing ingredients to hit the scene. From the nostalgic fries at Steak n’ Shake to RFK Jr.’s support of this age-old fat, beef tallow is making waves—both in kitchens and on social media. But what exactly is beef tallow, why is everyone talking about it, and should you actually consider using it? Let’s dive in and break it down.
The Beef Tallow Revival: From RFK Jr. to Steak n’ Shake
The story of beef tallow’s return isn’t just a trend—it’s a reflection of a broader cultural and culinary shift. Recently, Steak n’ Shake made headlines when it announced that it would be switching back to beef tallow for frying its famous fries, a move that some saw as a nod to nostalgia and others as a calculated response to rising demand for “better” cooking fats. But this wasn’t just a business decision; it turned political when RFK Jr. publicly praised the decision, framing it as a victory for “natural” food sources over the processed oils that have dominated the fast food industry for decades.
Beef tallow itself has long been a staple in kitchens, especially in the 19th and early 20th centuries, before being replaced by vegetable oils and other fats. Now, it’s finding its way back into the spotlight, making a return not just in restaurants like Steak n’ Shake but also as a trendy skincare ingredient. So, what’s behind all the chatter?
What Exactly Is Beef Tallow?
Simply put, beef tallow is rendered fat from cows. It’s made by slowly melting down beef fat (primarily from the kidney and surrounding areas) to separate the solid parts from the liquid. The result? A thick, fatty substance that’s used in cooking, baking, and even skincare.
Tallow is primarily composed of saturated fats, which have long been criticized for their association with heart disease. However, it’s important to note that not all saturated fats are created equal. Beef tallow also contains monounsaturated fats (the “good” fats found in olive oil and avocados), which have been shown to support heart health in moderation.
Why Is Everyone Talking About Beef Tallow?
Beef tallow’s resurgence is no coincidence. It taps into several current cultural and culinary trends, from the push for sustainability to the growing interest in “whole foods.” Here’s why people can’t seem to stop talking about it:
- Nostalgia and Authenticity: For many, beef tallow evokes a sense of nostalgia. It was the go-to fat for cooking fries in the past, and many people associate it with the kind of hearty, “real” food they remember from childhood. When Steak n’ Shake made the switch, it wasn’t just a marketing move—it was a return to an old favorite.
- Healthier Cooking Alternative? There’s an ongoing debate about which fats are the healthiest. While vegetable oils have long been marketed as a healthier alternative, beef tallow is seen by some as more natural, especially when compared to industrial seed oils like canola or sunflower oil. The key is balance: while it’s high in saturated fat, tallow also boasts beneficial nutrients like vitamins A, D, E, and K, which are fat-soluble and support overall health.
- Sustainability: As sustainability becomes a growing concern, people are increasingly interested in sourcing their foods in a way that’s both ethical and environmentally conscious. Using tallow, a byproduct of beef production, rather than throwing it away or using processed alternatives, fits into the mindset of reducing waste.
- Skincare Benefits: Beyond cooking, beef tallow is making a mark in the beauty world, thanks to its rich, nourishing qualities. It’s been praised for its ability to hydrate and soothe skin, especially in dry or cracked conditions. The fatty acids found in tallow are thought to mimic those naturally present in human skin, which is why it’s sometimes added to creams, soaps, and balms.
Is Beef Tallow Healthy?
If you’re considering incorporating beef tallow into your diet, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons.
Pros:
- Rich in Nutrients: Tallow is loaded with vitamins and healthy fats that are essential for hormone regulation, immune function, and brain health.
- Stable Cooking Fat: Unlike some oils, beef tallow has a high smoking point, meaning it can withstand higher temperatures without breaking down into harmful compounds. This makes it ideal for frying and searing.
Cons:
- High in Saturated Fat: While moderate consumption of saturated fat is generally okay for most people, overconsumption could contribute to an increased risk of heart disease for those who are already at risk or have high cholesterol.
- Calorie-Dense: Like any fat, tallow is calorie-dense, so it’s important to use it in moderation, especially if you’re monitoring your weight or overall calorie intake.
Final Thoughts
Beef tallow is having a moment, thanks to its return to the frying pans of iconic chains like Steak n’ Shake and its newfound role in beauty products. While it offers some health benefits, particularly for those looking for an alternative to processed vegetable oils, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Whether you’re considering it for your kitchen or your skincare routine, it’s important to approach it with balance and awareness of your own dietary needs.
In the end, beef tallow might not be the miracle food some make it out to be, but it’s certainly an interesting option to explore—especially if you’re looking to embrace more traditional, sustainable practices in your cooking and self-care routines.
