Creator & Owner
What is Tallow?
Why Tallow
What?! Beef fat for the skin? Initially, this may sound gross to those of us living in a plastic-wrapped world where we are highly disconnected from our food. Yet, in the sustainable and sacred tradition of appreciating all of our resources, tallow is a actually a beautiful golden oil that has many uses. Actually, although you may not have ever noticed, tallow is still used as a base in some commercial cosmetic products. It has become increasing less popular with the reign of big business though, as it is both time consuming to produce and not patentable.
Traditionally, tallow was applied as a soothing and regenerating balm for weathered and irritated skin. Modern science has provided further insight into the specific mechanics of this healing reaction.
Specialties
Stable
Nourishing
Easily Asbsorbed
Safe
Feels Amazing
Revitalizing
Healing
What is Tallow?
Tallow is a form of rendered fat, classically made from beef, although technically any animal could be used as a source. Vegetarian versions made from plants such as the tallow tree are also available, although the composition of plant-based fats is slightly different from the traditional form. There are a number of uses for tallow, making it a product in consistent demand.
Typically, tallow starts with the extraction of suet from a carcass. Suet is hard fat found in the neighborhood of the kidneys and around some other organs. While suet can be used as-is, rendering it removes the impurities and also extends the shelf life.
Once suet is rendered, it becomes tallow. As long as it is stored in an airtight container in a cool environment, it can keep for an extended period of time, unlike suet, which will become rancid.
Beef, pig, and mutton tallow are all fairly common. It is also rendered from animals like horses. The product is high in monounsaturated fatty acids, with lesser amounts of saturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids. The composition of the fats causes it to be solid and white at room temperature, and properly rendered tallow is odorless and tasteless.