Frequently asked questions
What is beef tallow?
Beef tallow is gently rendered and purified fat, traditionally used in cooking, soap-making, and skin care.
At The Tallow Pantry, we use suet only (kidney fat) as a rich, creamy base chosen for its skin-compatible feel. Like many animal fats, it naturally contains fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K) that occur in animal fats.
Is your tallow made from grass-fed beef?
Yes. We use 100% grass-fed and finished Australian beef suet, chosen for quality, traceability, and consistency across every small batch.
What does “100% grass-fed and finished” mean, and why does it matter?
“Grass-fed and finished” means the cattle are raised on pasture and eat grass and forage for their entire lives — including the final “finishing” phase.
We choose grass-fed and finished tallow because it aligns with a pasture-based approach and gives us a clean, creamy base to formulate with — part of our commitment to thoughtful sourcing and responsible practices.
What makes The Tallow Pantry different?
Many tallow makers share similar values — and we love that. For us, it’s the details and the standard we hold ourselves to in every small batch.
We use suet only, sourced from a single Australian farm, then render slowly and carefully. If a batch carries more natural aroma than we’re happy with, we render it again. Each render is filtered through organic cheesecloth to create a cleaner, more refined finish.
Our formulas are intentionally tallow-forward, lightly scented, and made in true small batches (around eight jars at a time) — hand poured and hand labelled.
What is your tallow balm made with?
Our balms are made with a tallow-forward base and a short list of thoughtfully chosen ingredients — including grass-fed tallow, beeswax, and selected botanical oils. Some balms include small amounts of essential oils for a gentle scent and daily ritual.
You can view the full ingredient glossary on our Ingredients page.
Are your balms halal?
Yes. Our tallow is sourced through halal-certified supply, reflecting our commitment to ethically handled ingredients and humane processing practices.
Our balms are cosmetic and intended for external use only, but we value halal-certified sourcing as part of doing things with care, integrity, and respect.
Do you test on animals?
No — our products are not tested on animals.
Are your balms vegan?
No. Our formulas are made with tallow, an animal-derived ingredient sourced as a by-product of the food industry.
Do you sell cooking tallow?
At this stage, we’re focused on our small-batch skincare range.
Tallow is part of our own kitchen traditions at home, but we don’t currently offer an edible tallow product for sale.
Do you recommend a patch test?
Yes. Even products made with natural ingredients can cause reactions for some people — particularly those containing essential oils.
We recommend performing a patch test before first use, even if you’ve used similar products before. If irritation occurs, discontinue use immediately.
If you have known allergies or sensitivities, we suggest consulting a qualified health professional before use.
Our balms are cosmetic products intended for external use only. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition.
Can these balms be used on babies or children?
Many families choose Bambino as a gentle option for little ones, as it’s made with a short ingredient list and only a very light scent.
Because every child’s skin is different, we recommend a patch test before broader use. For babies under 3 months, we suggest speaking with a qualified health professional before introducing any new skincare product.
For external use only. Avoid the eye area.
Which balm should I choose?
It depends on the texture and ritual you love most — and whether you prefer a lighter or richer finish.
- Whipped balms feel light, airy, and easy to spread — ideal for everyday use when you prefer a softer finish.
- Firm balms feel denser and more buttery — lovely when you want a richer, more cocooning feel.
Some balms are only very lightly scented, while others have a more noticeable botanical aroma. If you’re sensitive to essential oils, we recommend patch testing and starting with a lighter scent option.
If you’d like help choosing, feel free to contact us — we’re always happy to guide you.
How do I use tallow balm (and how much do I need)?
Our balms are designed for everyday use across the face and body.
A little goes a long way. For the face or hands, a pea-sized amount is usually enough. For areas like elbows, knees, or feet, you may prefer a little more.
Warm the balm between your fingertips first, then smooth or press onto the skin. Start small — you can always add another light layer if needed.
Our balms can also be used alongside other skincare. Many people apply a small amount as the final step. It can sit beautifully under makeup — I personally use a tiny amount under foundation for a smooth, dewy finish.
How long does tallow balm last, and do you use preservatives?
Because our balms are water-free, they’re designed to keep well when stored with care.
As a guide:
- Balms with Vitamin E: up to 18 months unopened and best used within 12 months once opened.
- Balms without Vitamin E (Tender & Bambino): up to 12 months unopened and best used within 6–12 months once opened.
For the best experience, store your balm cool and dry, keep the lid closed tightly, and avoid introducing water into the jar.
How should I store my balm, and what if it softens in warm weather?
Store your balm cool and dry, away from direct sunlight and heat, with the lid closed tightly. Because our balms are water-free, they’re designed to keep well when stored with care.
Refrigeration is optional. It can help your balm stay firmer in warmer weather, but it isn’t required for everyday storage.
Because our balms are made with natural tallow and beeswax, they may soften or lose shape in warm conditions during shipping. This is completely normal and does not affect the balm’s quality or overall experience.
To restore firmness, place the jar upright in a cool spot and allow it to settle. If needed, you can pop it in the fridge briefly to firm, then let it return to room temperature before use.
Do you ship Australia-wide, and how much is shipping?
Yes — we ship Australia-wide via Australia Post, with tracking included.
Shipping is a flat rate of $12 per order, with free standard shipping on orders over $99 (up to a maximum order value of $260).
Full details are available on our Shipping Policy page.
Are your jars recyclable?
Yes — our jars are amber glass, which can be reused at home or recycled where accepted.
Our lids are ABS plastic, and recycling guidelines for lids can vary by location. We recommend checking with your local council.
Is your packaging plastic-free?
Not completely — yet.
Our jars are amber glass and we ship in post-consumer recycled mailers. Our lids are ABS plastic with an induction seal to keep each jar secure in transit. We’re continuing to explore more circular options as we grow, while keeping packaging practical and protective.
Can you help me choose the right balm?
Absolutely. If you tell us the texture you prefer (whipped or firm) and whether you like a lighter or more noticeable botanical scent, we’ll gladly guide you to the best place to start.
Reach out via our Contact page — we’re always happy to help.