The Unexpected Comeback of Beef Tallow

Beef tallow, a type of fat that was once shunned by health experts and the government, is now gaining attention in the latest dietary guidelines. This fat, derived from beef, has been quietly gaining fans over the past few years. Chefs love it for its ability to make fries and doughnuts extra crispy. Beauty influencers are using it as a skin moisturizer. Others prefer it for high-fat diets or believe it is a healthier choice than seed oils. In 2024, beef tallow made a splash during Thanksgiving. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. , barefoot, pulled a turkey out of a vat of boiling beef tallow. He declared, \"This is how we cook the MAHA way, \" referring to his \"Make America Healthy Again\" movement.The federal government has now officially recognized beef tallow as a healthy option. At a news conference, Mr. Kennedy announced new dietary guidelines that will shape national nutrition programs for the next five years. He stated, \"We are ending the war on saturated fats. \" This shift in attitude towards beef tallow is notable. For nearly 50 years, both cardiologists and the government advised against consuming it. The change in perspective raises questions about the evolving understanding of nutrition and health. The popularity of beef tallow is not just limited to cooking. It has found its way into beauty products and high-fat diets. This versatile fat is now seen as a healthier alternative to seed oils. The federal government's endorsement of beef tallow marks a significant change in dietary recommendations.