Tallow vs. Lard: What's the Difference?

Tallow and lard are two of the most popular animal-based fats used in cooking and skincare, but they come from different sources and have distinct properties. Whether you’re looking for a healthy fat for frying or a nourishing ingredient for skincare, knowing the differences between tallow and lard can help you make an informed decision.

Let’s explore how they compare.

What Are Tallow & Lard?

Tallow is rendered fat from cows or sheep. It is obtained by slowly heating suet (the raw fat from around the kidneys and loins of the animal) until the pure fat separates from connective tissue.

Once cooled, tallow has a firm, waxy consistency and a long shelf life, making it excellent for both cooking and skincare. It has been used for centuries in traditional cooking and skincare routines due to its high stability and nutrient-rich profile.

Lard, on the other hand, is rendered fat from pigs. It is produced in a similar manner to tallow, but since it comes from a different animal, it has a softer texture and a milder flavor.

Lard is highly valued in cooking for its ability to create flaky pie crusts, tender meats, and flavorful fried foods. Historically, lard was a staple in many kitchens before vegetable oils became widespread, and it is still cherished by bakers and chefs who appreciate its natural, wholesome qualities.

Fat Composition & Absorption

Tallow is rich in saturated fats like stearic and palmitic acid, which help support our skin's barrier and provide long-lasting hydration. Its high stability also makes it excellent for cooking at high temperatures. 

Lard, in contrast, contains more monounsaturated fats, which give it a softer texture and make it easier to spread. It is still a good choice for cooking, but it has a lower smoke point than tallow, making it less suitable for deep frying or high-heat roasting.

Vitamin Content

Both tallow and lard contain fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K, but their concentrations differ. Tallow is particularly high in vitamin A, which supports skin health and collagen production.

Lard, on the other hand, is one of the best sources of vitamin D, especially if it comes from pasture-raised pigs. Vitamin D is essential for bone health and immune function, making lard a valuable dietary fat.

Additionally, both fats provide vitamin E, which acts as an antioxidant to protect cells from oxidative stress.

Which One is Better for Skincare?

If you’re looking for a natural moisturizer, tallow is the better choice. It closely mimics human skin oils, making it deeply nourishing and easily absorbed, without clogging pores. Tallow’s rich concentration of fat-soluble vitamins supports skin repair, hydration, and anti-aging benefits. 

Lard, while still moisturizing, has a softer texture and a different fatty acid composition that may not be as beneficial for skincare as tallow. Additionally, lard is more prone to oxidation, which can reduce its effectiveness when applied to the skin over time.

Which One is Better for Cooking?

Both tallow and lard are excellent for cooking, but their applications differ.

Tallow is best for frying and roasting because of its high smoke point and stable saturated fat content. It adds a deep, savory flavor to meats and vegetables, making it a favorite among those who enjoy traditional, nutrient-dense foods.

Lard is better for baking and pan-frying, as it produces flakier crusts and tender pastries while still being suitable for frying at moderate temperatures. Many bakers prefer lard for making biscuits, tortillas, and pie crusts due to its ability to create a delicate, flaky texture.

Stability & Shelf Life

One of the biggest advantages of tallow is its stability. Tallow has a long shelf life and can be stored at room temperature for months without spoiling. This makes it an excellent option for those who want a long-lasting fat for both cooking and skincare.

Lard, however, has a higher tendency to go rancid and usually requires refrigeration to maintain its freshness. If you need a fat that will last a long time without refrigeration, tallow is the better option. Lard can be frozen to extend its shelf life, but it must be used within a reasonable timeframe to maintain its quality.

Which One Should You Choose?

If you’re looking for a long-lasting, nutrient-dense fat for skincare and high-heat cooking, tallow is the best choice. It is stable, deeply nourishing, and excellent for frying, roasting, and skincare.

If you need a fat for baking, pan-frying, or adding a mild flavor to dishes, lard is a great alternative due to its softer texture and high vitamin D content.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your intended use. Those who prioritize long-term storage and high-heat cooking should opt for tallow, while those who love to bake or prefer a slightly more neutral flavor might prefer lard.

Recommended: Tallow vs Butter & Ghee: Which One Is Best?

Final Thoughts

Both tallow and lard have their benefits, but tallow is the more versatile option due to its stability, nutrient density, and suitability for both cooking and skincare. Lard is best for baking and moderate-heat cooking, but it requires more careful storage.

Tallow’s ability to nourish the skin, last for months without refrigeration, and provide a rich, savory depth to cooking makes it a standout option for those seeking a natural, multi-purpose fat.

If you’re interested in using tallow for skincare, check out our collection at Tallow & Wild for premium grass-fed tallow balms and skincare products!