Ingredient

Hydrogenated Tallow

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Source
Animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use hydrogenated tallow as a shortening or fat source in baked goods like …

What it is

Hydrogenated tallow is a type of fat derived from beef or mutton fat (tallow). The hydrogenation process adds hydrogen to the fat, making it more solid at room temperature and increasing its shelf life.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use hydrogenated tallow as a shortening or fat source in baked goods like cakes, cookies, and pastries. It provides a desirable texture and structure to these products.

Health notes

Hydrogenated tallow is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. Like other fats, it is a source of calories. Some studies have raised concerns about the potential health effects of hydrogenated fats, particularly those containing trans fats, though modern hydrogenation processes aim to minimize trans fat formation. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated fats and oils, including hydrogenated versions, in their broader assessments.

Allergen info

Hydrogenated tallow is derived from animal fat and is not one of the nine FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Hydrogenated Tallow

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HOSTESS Frosted Chocolate Cupcakes With Creamy Filling, Frosted Chocolate Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in sodium — 21% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 25% DV per serving High in added sugars — 76% DV per serving 367kcal 2.2Protein 13.3Fat 63.3Carbs HOSTESS Lemonade Stand Golden Sponge Cake With Lemon Creamy Filling, Lemonade Stand Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving High in added sugars — 62% DV per serving 364kcal 2.6Protein 11.7Fat 61.0Carbs Delhaize America, Inc. My Essentials, Frosting, Cream Cheese, Cream Cheese Baking Decorations & Dessert Toppings 424kcal 0Protein 18.2Fat 66.7Carbs Food Town Stores Inc. Creamy Frosting, Creamy Fudge Baking Decorations & Dessert Toppings 394kcal 0Protein 18.2Fat 60.6Carbs Food Town Stores Inc. Creamy Frosting, Creamy Vanilla Baking Decorations & Dessert Toppings 424kcal 0Protein 18.2Fat 66.7Carbs Hostess Brands, LLC Fruit Pie, Lemon Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 65% DV per serving 398kcal 3.1Protein 19.5Fat 50.8Carbs Frosted Orange Flavored Cake With Creamy Filling Cupcakes, Frosted Orange Hostess Brands, LLC Frosted Orange Flavored Cake With Creamy Filling Cupcakes, Frosted Orange Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in added sugars — 46% DV per serving 375kcal 2.1Protein 12.5Fat 66.7Carbs Target Stores Frosting, Vanilla Baking Decorations & Dessert Toppings 424kcal 0Protein 18.2Fat 66.7Carbs Hostess Brands, LLC Hostess, Twinkies, Covered Sponge Cake With Filling, White Peppermint, White Peppermint Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving 390kcal 2.4Protein 19.5Fat 56.1Carbs Hostess Brands, LLC Hostess, Cupcakes, Caramel Apple, Caramel Apple Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes 356kcal 2.2Protein 13.3Fat 57.8Carbs Hostess Brands, LLC Merry Minty Holidays Cakes, Frosting Cake With Mint Creamy Filling, Chocolate Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes 356kcal 2.2Protein 13.3Fat 60Carbs Hostess Brands, LLC Cupcakes, Caramel Apple Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 25% DV per serving 356kcal 2.2Protein 12.2Fat 60Carbs

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.