Most candles sold in the United States are made from paraffin wax, which is a petroleum byproduct. The burn quality issues associated with paraffin — soot, uneven burning, waxy residue — are well documented, and the alternative market has expanded significantly as a result. Here is an honest look at how tallow candles compare.
What Paraffin Does When It Burns
Paraffin is a refined petroleum byproduct. When burned, it produces combustion byproducts including toluene and benzene at trace levels — compounds associated with the soot that accumulates on walls and ceilings above frequently burned candles. This is why candles can leave black marks on walls over time.
The combustion byproduct concern is real but often overstated — the levels from a single candle burned occasionally are not a meaningful health concern in a ventilated space. But for people who burn candles daily or in small rooms without ventilation, the difference in combustion profile between paraffin and clean-burning alternatives is relevant.
Tallow Burns Clean
Tallow is primarily saturated fat — a much simpler chemical composition than paraffin. It burns more completely, produces less soot, and does not release the same combustion byproducts. The burn is steady and even, with minimal mushrooming of the wick.
Scent Throw
Tallow holds fragrance well due to its higher density compared to soy wax alternatives. Our 16 oz Mason Jar candle in the Beef Tallow collection fills a standard room effectively at standard burn. For large rooms or outdoor use, the expected scent throw is lower regardless of the candle type.
Burn Time
Tallow candles have a burn time competitive with equivalent-sized soy and paraffin candles. A 16 oz candle produces 60 to 80 hours of burn time under normal conditions. Trim the wick to 1/4 inch before each burn to maintain a clean flame and extend the life of the candle.
Our Beef Tallow Candle is available in the Beef Tallow collection.