Beef Tallow Day is observed on July 13 every year. Beef tallow is used in candles and soaps; its healthiest use, however, is in cooking. Though largely unknown to the general populace, it is considered a healthier alternative to even canola or vegetable oil. Established by the Healthy Fats Coalition (H.F.C.), the day aims to celebrate healthy animal fat, beef tallow shortening. The former is a new initiative aimed at the inclusion of healthy fats in the conventional American diet. The H.F.C. has been working to change the general perception of Americans toward animal fats and highlight their health benefits.
History of Beef Tallow Day
Beef tallow is a rendered form of beef. Most of the time, it is cooked down from any cut cow meat; other times, it is fat skimmed from the meat and melted down. Tallow remains soft and pliable at room temperature and can be used instead of butter or oil. It even has a high smoke point, making it a great option for deep-frying and cooking that requires high heat. Tallow is used to make candles and soaps, even though its safest use is as a cooking fat. Though beef tallow is not a very common ingredient today, it has historically been used for several purposes. Tallow has been an ingredient in soap for several millennia, starting from Ancient Rome and Egypt.During the Industrial revolution, tallow was sourced by soap manufacturers as a byproduct of the meat industry. Animal fats like tallow have been used for medicinal purposes in several civilizations over the years — including by the Babylonians, Indigenous Australians, and Native Americans. Tallow has also been a common ingredient in beauty products like pomade up until the 20th century.Tallow has been a part of food preparation in several cultures. Several Native American food preparations included tallow. Today, however, tallow is most often used only by chefs looking to make a statement with their creations. Beef Tallow Day was first established by the Healthy Fats Coalition in 2017.
Beef Tallow Day timeline
The ancient Romans begin making candles using tallow
Soap is described as a mixture of tallow and red ash.
The Healthy Fats Coalition is formed to promote the consumption of healthy animal fats.
The first Beef Tallow is celebrated by the Healthy Fats Coalition.
Beef Tallow Day FAQs
What is beef tallow good for?
Beef tallow can be used for sauteing, frying, and roasting.
How many times can I reuse beef tallow?
There is no specific number of times you can reuse tallow, but it’s a good idea to stop using it when it begins to look or smell off.
Does beef tallow add flavor?
Yes, it definitely does.
How to Observe Beef Tallow Day
-
Cook something using beef tallow
If you like cooking, try to cook something using beef tallow instead of oil or butter. Give it a try, you may find you like it!
-
Find a restaurant that uses tallow
Find a restaurant in your area that uses tallow and give them a visit. If you’re so inclined, you can ever write up a review and post it.
-
Share your experience on social media
If you enjoy your experience, share your experience on social media to spread the word. There’s no better way to get the word out about new things and experiences.
5 Interesting Facts About Cows
-
Average teeth count
The average cow has 32 teeth.
-
They’re from Turkey
Cows are domesticated for the very first time in Turkey.
-
Good swimmers
Cows are actually very good swimmers.
-
90% of milk supply
Dairy cows provide 90% of the world’s milk supply.
-
One stomach, four sections
Cows only have one stomach but that one stomach is divided into four sections.
Why Beef Tallow Day is Important
-
It offers an alternate option to conventional cooking fats
While most people aren’t rushing to swap out their olive oil and butter, Beef Tallow Day brings attention to an alternative to cooking fat. See what dishes you can concoct using tallow instead of traditional fats on this day.
-
Tallow has an interesting history
Tallow has been used for several purposes across the globe. The history of tallow is also the history of soap, candles, and the industrial revolution, among other things.
-
It’s an excuse to try food cooked in tallow
Beef Tallow Day is the perfect excuse to try food cooked in tallow. Post new recipes and reviews of your favorite dishes containing tallow.
Beef Tallow Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | July 13 | Thursday |
| 2024 | July 13 | Saturday |
| 2025 | July 13 | Sunday |
| 2026 | July 13 | Monday |
| 2027 | July 13 | Tuesday |
