The Benefits of Beef Tallow: A Superfood Guide

The Benefits of Beef Tallow: A Superfood Guide

Based Nutrition

Even before the MAHA movement took off around the country, beef tallow has been one of the best cooking oils there is. Yet another animal product our ancestors have long been using to cook their food, there is a resurgence of popularity among Americans to reintroduce beef tallow into their kitchen.

Even many large restaurant chains have been switching to beef tallow, perhaps most notably, American burger chain... Steak n' Shake. A move that has even received praise from the likes of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

People all around the world are being reminded that beef tallow, a rendered form of beef fat, has been used for centuries in cooking and skincare. Despite some misconceptions and misinformation about its health effects, beef tallow actually offers several benefits when consumed in moderation, far more than the seed oils that have been forced upon us over the last several decades.

In this article, we will showcase some of the many benefits to switching to beef tallow and highlight why it should be a part of your everyday life.

What is Beef Tallow?

Tallow is a whiteish substance that is solid at room temperature. It’s made by removing, simmering and clarifying the fatty tissue that surrounds the organs of ruminant animals. Ruminant animals chew their cud and include cows, buffaloes, sheep, goats and deer. Beef tallow is commonly made from cows and is sometimes called “beef drippings.”

Some of the best beef tallow is made from suet, or a hard fat from around the kidneys of beef, lamb, or mutton. This fat is full of vitamins and minerals that are essential to the human body. Which leads us into the many benefits of making tallow apart of your diet, and even, your skincare routine.

The Benefits of Beef Tallow

There are a laundry list of reasons you should be eating a high-quality, small batch beef tallow, and not the ones from the brands that were bought out by the big food corporations.

Despite all the reasons the mainstream would tell you tallow is not healthy for you, such as it being high in saturated fats and could lead to health problems, it is actually far more healthy to consume than seed oils or other synthetic cooking oils.

Rich in Nutrients

First and foremost, beef tallow is a rich source of essential nutrients, including vitamins A, D, E, and K. These vitamins play crucial roles in maintaining healthy skin, vision, immune function, and bone health. In fact, beef tallow contains higher concentrations of these vitamins compared to plant-based seed oils. These vitamins are fat-soluble, meaning your body can't put these vitamins to work without a bit of fat to help it absorb these essential vitamins.

Beef tallow is also a source of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), this type of polyunsaturated fat may reduce inflammation and support metabolism. CLA is naturally found in dairy products, beef and lamb, and has been shown to have a range of potential benefits, including antioxidant, anti-cancer and anti-obesity effects.

Beef fat even contains some essential minerals like zinc and selenium, which are vital in many functions of the body and what people are often not getting enough of through diet.

Vitamins and minerals such as the above can help you lose weight, fend off unwanted inflammation, and boost your immune system, which are some foundational steps people can take to live a happier and healthier life.

Heart-Healthy Fats

Contrary to popular belief, beef tallow is composed of approximately 50% saturated fats, which are not as harmful as once thought. In fact, recent studies have shown that saturated fats from sources like beef tallow can actually raise levels of "good" HDL cholesterol and improve overall heart health.

Saturated fats can even raise cholesterol levels which is one of the key building blocks of the human body. Cholesterol helps regulate hormones, which can lead to improved heart health among other things.

The real health benefits with beef tallow is as much about what's not in it as it is what is. The seed oils that are present in all our food are full of toxins and are made with chemicals that are still present when they reach your dinner table. That is what sets tallow apart from the rest of the cooking oils out there. 

Improved Flavor and Texture

When used in cooking, beef tallow can enhance the flavor and texture of dishes. Its rich, savory taste adds depth to foods, while its high melting point creates a crispy and satisfying texture in fried foods. Many chefs prefer using beef tallow for its ability to elevate the taste of various dishes.

High Smoke Point

One of the main advantages of cooking with beef tallow is its high smoke point, which can reach up to 400°F (204°C). This makes it ideal for frying and high-heat cooking methods, as it remains stable and does not oxidize easily, unlike some vegetable oils.

Long Shelf Life

Due to its high saturated fat content, beef tallow has a long shelf life and is less prone to rancidity compared to polyunsaturated fats. When stored properly in a cool, dark place, beef tallow can last for months without spoiling, making it a convenient and cost-effective cooking fat.

Overall, beef tallow can be a valuable addition to a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. Its nutrient density, high smoke point, heart-healthy fats, flavor-enhancing properties, and long shelf life make it a versatile and beneficial ingredient for both cooking and skincare.

Make America Based Again

Based's flagship product and beef organ multivitamin is made from 100% grass-fed, grass-finished, and pasture-raised beef organs, with natural forms of many of the essential vitamins your body needs. Despite all the competition from well-known brands on the market, we differentiate ourselves by removing all the synthetics and poison these common products contain.

With more supplements, like creatine, on the way, be sure to give us a try and support us on our mission to bring the necessary building blocks to the American people and Make America Based Again!

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