How Long Does Beef Tallow Last?
Beef tallow has a long shelf life when stored properly — that’s one of the reasons it was so commonly used before refrigeration became widespread. Thanks to its low moisture content and natural stability, beef tallow can stay fresh for months or even years.
Room Temperature Shelf Life
When kept in a cool, dark place in a sealed container, beef tallow can last up to 12 months at room temperature. Keep it away from direct sunlight and humidity to prevent spoilage.
Refrigerated Shelf Life
If you choose to refrigerate your tallow, you can easily extend its shelf life to 18 months or longer. The colder temperature slows oxidation and preserves freshness, especially if the container is airtight.
Freezer Storage
Want to store tallow even longer? Freeze it! Properly stored in freezer-safe jars or silicone molds, beef tallow can last 2+ years in the freezer with no loss in quality.
How to Know if Tallow Has Gone Bad
While rare, beef tallow can go rancid if exposed to moisture, air, or heat for too long. Watch out for:
- A sour or “off” smell
- Yellowing or darkening of color (especially if exposed to light)
- Unusual flavor or texture
Keep Your Tallow Fresh
Use a clean utensil each time you scoop tallow, and keep it sealed when not in use. Avoid introducing food particles or moisture into the container.
Quality You Can Trust
At Parker County Beef Company, our beef tallow is rendered in small batches from Texas-raised cattle and sealed for maximum freshness. We never add preservatives or fillers — just pure, natural beef fat rendered the old-fashioned way.
Have questions about storage or shelf life? Call us at 817-404-7405 or email orders@parkercountybeefcompany.com.