Why Tallow?

Why Tallow? - Oak & Ember

Not just a trend

Beef tallow has been used for thousands of years, dating back to ancient civilizations like:

Egyptians, who used animal fats in balms and ointments.

Indigenous peoples, who rendered fat from hunted animals for everything from cooking to skin protection.

Medieval Europe, where tallow was used in candles, soaps, salves, and as a moisturizer in cold climates.

Before petroleum and synthetic oils, tallow was the gold standard for skincare and household uses.


Traditional Tallow Products

Soaps: Hard, long-lasting soap bars made with rendered tallow were the household norm.

Candles: Tallow candles were widely used before beeswax and paraffin alternatives.

Balms & salves: Used to treat wounds, burns, dry skin, and diaper rash.

Leather care: Tallow conditioned boots, saddles, and tack.


Tallow & the Zero-Waste Philosophy

"Nose-to-Tail" Sustainability

Using all parts of the animal is a philosophy rooted in respect for the animal and the environment. In traditional farming and indigenous cultures, nothing was wasted.

When a cow is butchered:

Meat is used for food.

Bones become broth or bone tools.

Organs are used for nutrient-dense meals or supplements.

Hides become leather goods.

Fat (tallow) is rendered for cooking, lighting, skincare, and more.

This practice reduces landfill waste and honors the life of the animal by using every part.


Modern Regenerative Farming & Tallow

Today, many regenerative farms and homesteads are reviving the tradition of using tallow, especially in:

Skincare and beauty brands

Artisan soap makers

Low-waste, earth-conscious households

By sourcing tallow locally from grass-fed, pasture-raised cows, producers also support ethical agriculture and reduce reliance on petroleum-based or imported plant oils (like palm oil or soy).


Why It Matters Today

In a world dominated by mass-produced skincare filled with synthetic ingredients and excessive packaging, tallow:

Offers a natural, simple alternative

Supports local farmers and regenerative systems

Prevents waste by upcycling what would otherwise be discarded

Reduces reliance on chemical-laden or industrially grown ingredients

Back to blog