100% Grass Fed vs Holistically Fed Cattle and the effects on Suet for Tallow

*Before we get into it, we want to make clear that we are not promoting either one as better or worse. We are simply sharing what we have learned.

When it comes to tallow and where it comes from, in terms of 100% grass fed(eats only grass) vs. a more holistic feeding regiment(eats grasses, legumes, garlic, natural vitamins/minerals)(*this is not the same as grain fed), and which one is better for skin care products. After all the research we did before deciding what tallow would be best for our skin care products, most information supported 100% grass fed suet(kidney fat) as the best product for the high oleic acid profiles found in grass fed cattle. As time has gone on, we have continued to do research to stay on top of any new findings, as there is always room for growth/education. In this case, the science and lab tests have shown that a 100% grass fed cows suet will have around 3% elaidic acid, 15% stearic acid and 40% oleic acid(along with other fatty acids) vs holistically fed cows suet will have around 40% elaidic acid, 35% stearic acid and 3% oleic acid(along with other fatty acids), meaning 100% grass fed cattle equals higher oleic acid, where holistically fed cattle equals higher elaidic acid. Why is that important? How do those fatty acids affect skin care products?

Stearic acid means "soft", and in terms of of skin products, it serves the purpose of making skin/hair soft and makes product smoother/thicker. We will focus more on oleic and elaidic acid, because stearic is good in both.

The tale of two twins and why Oleic acid(Cis Twin) and Elaidic(Trans Twin) are juggenauts in skin care products. These two acids have the same molecular profile and are identical in every way, but one, how they are shaped. It is this slight difference that makes them powerhouses in their own unique ways in skin products.

Oleic acid is the deep drinker and is shaped like an elbow, which keeps it from compacting tightly together. It interupts the skin barrier and allowing vitamins/retinoids/peptides to penetrate deep into the skin. This saturates the skin leaving it moisturized and feeling soft, supple and hydrated. If your skin is dry and flaky, oleic acid is often the hero your skin needs.

Elaidic acid is the barrier builder and is very straight, which allows it to compact tightly together. Instead of disrupting the skin, it reinforces the skin and protects it against outside environmental aggressors and prevents moisture loss. Elaidic acid is much more stable than oleic, which is where it shines. Skin products with elaidic acid have a much longer shelf life than those that are made with mostly oleic acid. Elaidic acid gives creams/balms a velvety feel without the greasy feel. It shines in cases where skin may be compromised, eczema/psoriasis/rosacea prone, and if you want a long lasting protective layer, elaidic acid is the hero your skin needs.

Neither is "better", they simply have different superpowers! Oleic acid is your go-to for deep hydration and penetration, while elaidic acid offers superior barrier protection and product stability. Many advanced skincare formulations will cleverly use a blend of both to achieve a comprehensive approach to skin health. The argument for 100% grass fed vs holistically fed cattle will go on and both sides will have very valid arguments as to why one is better than the other. At this time we use 100% grass fed tallow from suet at Urban Abundance, BUT we also feel that if the cattle is fed good quality feed and not poor grass/grains/minerals, that will make a huge difference in the quality of the suet from that animal. If you can get a great quality tallow from either and they both serve their purpose AND make a superior product, then we feel that should be the goal.

Ultimately, it behooves us to remember that nature doesn't work in a vacuum. The stability of an Elaidic acid and the suppleness of Oleic acid are at their peak when the animal they come from has lived a life of biodiverse, holistic health. We don't need to chase 'perfect' labels; we need to return to 'perfect' systems. When we respect the biology of the animal, we receive the most potent, stable, and transformative ingredients nature has to offer.