Is Tallow Vegan?

Vegan status: Not Vegan

Also known as: Beef tallow, Mutton tallow, Sodium tallowate (in soap), Stearic acid (sometimes)

Source

Rendered fat from cattle or sheep, produced as a byproduct of the beef and lamb industries.

Commonly found in

Traditionally used in fast-food frying oil (McDonald's UK fries, historically), some soaps, candles, cosmetics, lubricants, and crayons.

Vegan alternative: Vegetable shortening, coconut oil, palm oil (sustainability concerns), or shea butter.

Notes

Sodium tallowate on soap ingredient lists indicates animal-derived tallow. Most modern fast-food restaurants have switched to vegetable oils, but cross-contamination risks remain.