The Comeback of Beef Tallow in Kitchens
A Flavorful Revival
Before the rise of seed oils in the 1990s, beef tallow was the go-to fat for enhancing flavor in American diners and French bistros. Its resurgence has now made waves in the food industry, even earning the top spot in Whole Foods Market’s Trends Council’s 2026 report. Chefs, of course, have long embraced this versatile ingredient.
Growing Popularity
Beef tallow has transitioned from waste to a billion-dollar industry, with sales reaching $1.1 billion in the year leading to March 2026—an astounding 275% increase compared to three years earlier. It now occupies prime shelf space in stores like Whole Foods, HEB, and Sprouts.
Chefs & Their Creative Uses
At Chicago’s Rose Mary, chef Joe Flamm uses tallow in innovative ways, like topping his tuna crudo with a shallot-beef fat vinaigrette. This illustrates tallow’s versatility, as chefs are now incorporating it into sauces and bread instead of merely frying.
Advantages of Tallow
Beef tallow withstands high temperatures, resulting in cleaner oil and better browning in cooking. Jessica Haggard from Primal Edge Health states, “The difference in fried and roasted foods is real. The texture holds up in a way seed oils just can’t replicate.”
Industry Trends Backed by Data
Major players in the food industry are also taking note. By early 2025, Steak ‘n Shake switched to 100% beef tallow in its fryers, while companies like Utz and Conagra have launched tallow-cooked products. A March 2026 survey revealed that 52% of diners aged 18 to 34 factor cooking fat into their dining decisions, showcasing a growing preference for traditional animal fats.
Tallow’s Place in Home Cooking
In recent years, home chefs have also seen tallow’s increasing availability in mainstream grocery stores, with brands like FOND Grass-Fed Tallow and Epic Provisions making their way to shelves. If you’ve been considering using beef tallow, now is a great time to try it.
Mandy Applegate, who runs multiple high-profile food blogs and co-founded Food Drink Life Inc., continues to watch the food landscape for emerging trends.
