Tallow, is an oil obtained from animals such as cattle and sheep and is a key and valuable raw material in various industries. Due to its high stability, beneficial chemical composition, and economic efficiency, base fat plays a vital role in fields such as animal and poultry feed and the chemical industry.This article aims to comprehensively examine the definition, production process, formulation, applications, and advantages of this fat.
In simple terms, Tallow is a solid fat obtained from processing and purifying visceral (internal) and carcass fats of ruminant animals, particularly Beef Tallow (from cattle) and Mutton Tallow (from sheep). This fat is semi-solid to solid at room temperature and possesses a higher melting point than many vegetable oils (typically between 40∘C and 48∘C).
Chemically, Tallow is primarily composed of triglycerides. Its main characteristic is a high concentration of saturated fatty acids such as palmitic acid and stearic acid, which enhances its oxidative stability and shelf life. It also contains amounts of monounsaturated fatty acids like oleic acid. This composition makes it a dense source of energy.
Tallow’s stability, suitable cost, and high purity make it a valuable raw material in non-feed sectors as well:
The most significant and widespread application of Tallow is its use as a key component in the formulation of livestock, poultry, and aquaculture feed:
With approximately 8.5 to 9 kilocalories of metabolizable energy per gram, Tallow is one of the most energy-dense sources in animal diets. Its inclusion in the ration is crucial, especially in conditions requiring high energy needs (such as rapid growth phases, egg production, or lactation).
The use of Tallow in feed reduces dust in pelleted feed and facilitates the pelleting process. It also enhances the palatability of the diet, thereby increasing feed intake in livestock and poultry.
Although Tallow is predominantly saturated, it supplies the necessary fatty acids for maintaining healthy skin and feather/coat quality. In ruminants, Tallow can be used as Protected Fat to increase the energy level without disrupting rumen fermentation. In poultry, it can also influence the quality of carcass fat and egg yolk.
In formulation, Tallow is typically added at a rate of 1% to 7% of the total diet. The exact inclusion rate depends on factors such as the animal type (broilers, layers, dairy cows, etc.), the stage of growth, nutritional requirements, and the price of other energy sources. Nutritionists use specialized software to calculate the optimal amount of Tallow to maintain the energy/protein balance of the diet.
The production of Tallow, known as Rendering, is a multi-step process aimed at separating the pure fat from protein tissues and water:
Raw fats are collected from slaughterhouses and cleaned of any superfluous tissues.
The raw fats are placed in large, jacketed tanks and subjected to controlled heat (usually via steam). This heat melts the fat, separating it from the protein (which turns into meat and bone meal) and evaporating the water. The process time and temperature must be precisely controlled to prevent the fat from burning and its quality from deteriorating.
The melted mixture is transferred to centrifuges or filters to separate the liquid fat (Tallow) from the solids (Sludge) and residual water.
To achieve better purity and color, the Tallow may undergo secondary refining processes, such as filtration with diatomaceous earth or activated carbon, to remove impurities, pigments, and free fatty acids as much as possible.
The refined Tallow, either in liquid form or after solidification, is stored in appropriate tanks or packaging for transportation.
The production of Tallow to high standards requires deep technical knowledge, modern equipment, and precise quality management. In Iran, pioneering companies operate in this field to supply the quality feed required by the livestock and poultry industry.
Ala Sepahan oil company with Lador brand name is one of the reliable and well-known producers in the field of processing and refining animal fats and producing tallow products with high purity. By utilizing the latest global technologies in the rendering and purification process, this company offers a product to the market that meets the strict standards of the animal and poultry feed industries, both in terms of quality (Free Fatty Acid levels, moisture, and impurities) and food safety.
The management of the complex, Mr. Saeed Alaee, has played a significant role in elevating the production and supply of premium Tallow in the Iranian market by focusing on the principles of quality, innovation, and customer commitment. They have achieved a special position in the supply chain for various powders, animal and industrial oils, and raw materials for feed production for livestock and poultry.
The efforts of this company exemplify a commitment to the circular economy and the optimal use of national resources. Some of this company’s products include: Triglyceride-Based Fat Powder, Pure Fat Powder, 40-45% Fat Powder, and more.
Tallow is more than a mere by-product; it is a strategic resource across various industries. At the heart of the livestock and poultry feed industry, it is a vital and cost-effective energy source that ensures animal health and growth. In the chemical industries, it serves as the cornerstone for numerous products, from soap to biodiesel. Given its economic advantages, stability, and energy efficiency, it can be concluded that Tallow plays a key role in food security and sustainable industrial development. Please contact our consultants at Ladorfat for price inquiries and further information.
