Everyday foods

Is tallow vegan?

Not vegan — tallow is a by-product of slaughter. It only exists because animals are killed, so buying it supports the same industry.

Not vegan

Is tallow vegan?

Not vegan

Why

tallow is a by-product of slaughter. It only exists because animals are killed, so buying it supports the same industry.

Commonly hides in

  • French fries

What to use instead

olive oilIt does exactly the same job in coffee, cooking and baking, with no change in method.

How to check a label

Ingredient lists are legally required to name allergens such as milk and egg in bold, which catches most hidden animal ingredients. E-numbers and processing aids are the gap: E120, E441, E542, E904 and E920 are animal-derived, and processing aids often go unlisted. When in doubt, look for a certified vegan mark or ask the manufacturer directly — most reply within a few days.

Newsletter

One short letter. Once a month.

A handful of recipes, a story worth your time, and one thing you can do this week. Nothing else.

We never share your email. Unsubscribe in one click.