Tallow

Tallow

Fat

Item Rating: 38/100

1 serving (13 grams) contains 117 calories, 0.0 grams of protein, 13.0 grams of fat, and 0.0 grams of carbohydrates.

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2132
calories
0
protein
0
carbohydrates
236.4
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (236.4g)
Calories
2132
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 236.4 g 303%
Saturated Fat 118.2 g 591%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 224.5 mg 74%
Sodium 0 mg 0%
Total Carbohydrates 0 g 0%
Dietary Fiber 0 g 0%
Sugars 0 g
protein 0 g 0%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 0 mg 0%
Iron 0.2 mg 1%
Potassium 0 mg 0%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🥓 Keto friendly
🍯 Low sugar
⚠️ Contains trans fat
🧂 Low sodium
🧂 Low salt
🧈 High saturated fat
🍞 Low carbs

Source of Calories

0.0%
0.0%
100.0%
Fat: 2127 cal (100.0%)
Protein: 0 cal (0.0%)
Carbs: 0 cal (0.0%)

About Tallow

Tallow is rendered fat commonly derived from beef or mutton, prized in traditional cuisines for its high smoke point and rich flavor. Historically, tallow has been utilized in European, American, and Middle Eastern dishes both for cooking and preservation. Nutritionally, tallow is purely fat, mostly composed of saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids. It contains no protein, carbohydrates, or significant micronutrients, aside from trace amounts of iron. Its caloric density makes it an efficient energy source. Tallow is often used for frying, baking, or as a flavor enhancer, and has a long shelf life compared to other fats.

Health Benefits

  • Provides quick energy due to its high-fat concentration, primarily saturated fats that are efficiently metabolized.
  • Contains monounsaturated fats like oleic acid, which are linked to heart health through moderated consumption.
  • High smoke point (approximately 400°F) minimizes the formation of harmful free radicals during cooking, enhancing food safety.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: None known
Suitable for: Paleo diet, ketogenic diet, carnivore diet
Not suitable for: Low-fat diets, vegetarian diets, vegan diets

Selection and Storage

Store tallow in an airtight container in a cool, dark place or refrigerate for extended shelf-life. Avoid exposure to moisture to prevent spoilage.

Common Questions About Tallow Nutrition

Is tallow high in protein?

No, tallow contains 0 grams of protein per 100 grams. It is purely a source of dietary fat and does not contribute to protein intake.

Can I eat tallow on a keto diet?

Yes, tallow is an excellent choice for a keto diet as it contains 0 grams of carbohydrates and is composed entirely of fat, which supports the high-fat macronutrient profile required for ketosis.

What are the health benefits and concerns of consuming tallow?

Tallow provides a concentrated source of energy from fat and contains fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin D, when sourced from grass-fed animals. However, excessive consumption can contribute to high calorie intake (902 calories per 100 grams) and should be moderated to avoid potential weight gain or cardiovascular concerns.

How much tallow should I use or consume?

Tallow is best used in small amounts, such as one to two tablespoons (approx. 115-230 calories), for cooking or sautéing foods. It is highly calorie-dense, so portion control is important to prevent overconsumption.

How does tallow compare to other cooking fats like butter or olive oil?

Tallow is higher in saturated fat compared to olive oil, which is primarily unsaturated fat. Unlike butter, tallow is dairy-free, making it suitable for people avoiding lactose. Tallow also has a high smoke point (around 400°F), making it ideal for high-heat cooking compared to butter.

Data Sources & Scientific References

Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.

Additional Authoritative Sources:

Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.