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Best Lards of 2026

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Ashley Abels

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Lards are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes, from baking to frying. Made from rendered pork fat, lards add a rich and savory flavor to dishes that can't be replicated with other cooking oils. They are perfect for making flaky pie crusts, crispy fried chicken, and even for sautéing vegetables. Lards are also a great source of vitamin D and can be a healthier alternative to other cooking oils. Whether you're a professional chef or a home cook, lards are a must-have in your pantry.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Top 10 Lards

SCP LARD Specialty Baking Shortening and Cooking Fat, 42 Ounces

SCP LARD Specialty Baking Shortening and Cooking Fat, 42 Ounces Cover

South Chicago Packing Traditonal LARD Shortening, 42 Ounces, Specialty Baking Shortening and Cooking Fat

SCP LARD Specialty Baking Shortening and Cooking Fat is a 42-ounce can of natural and sustainable lard, that is gluten-free and contains no artificial trans fats, partially hydrogenated oils or artificial ingredients. It outperforms solid vegetable shortenings in a variety of dishes, including tortillas, fried chicken, pie crusts, biscuits, breads, and cakes at a fraction of the cost of butter. SCP LARD has a superior taste, and is perfect for those who prefer a clean label. It also promotes nose-to-tail usability, with minimal processing.

9.9
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Natural ingredients
  • No preservatives
  • Light, fluffy, flaky results
  • Excellent for frying
  • Clean taste and freshness

What We Don't Like

  • Higher price
  • Occasional packaging issues

What Customers Say

"I've completely switched from Crisco to this product, and I’m thrilled with the results—my biscuits are always light and fluffy. I love that it’s a more natural choice for my baking!"

"After using lard and tallow for a couple of years, I can say this lard is super clean with no odor and makes the crispiest fried foods. The only downside is the price has gone up since I first started buying."

"This is a high-quality lard without preservatives—exactly what I want for my pantry. It’s made my pie crusts incredibly flaky and delicious. Even though shipping takes a little while and it’s a bit pricey, the superb quality is worth it."

#TOP 2

SULU ORGANICS 4 LBS Pork Lard

SULU ORGANICS 4 LBS Pork Lard Cover

4 LBS Fully Rendered Pork Lard-Ready to Eat-All Purpose-Keto-Paleo Friendly

The SULU ORGANICS Pork Lard is a versatile product that offers more than just traditional cooking uses. It provides healthy fats like oleic acid and vitamins D and E, supporting a balanced diet. Its high smoke point makes it perfect for cooking at high temperatures without burning, giving your dishes a subtle, enhanced flavor. Besides cooking, you can use it as a natural skin moisturizer by applying a small amount before bed, helping your skin feel soft and restored by morning. For storage, it stays stable at room temperature but can be refrigerated for longer shelf life, giving you flexibility in keeping it fresh.

9.8
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Odorless and neutral flavor
  • Light whipped texture
  • Quick skin absorption
  • No artificial additives
  • Affordable multi-use product

What We Don't Like

  • Possible labeling confusion

What Customers Say

"I've used this lard for moisturizing my skin and hair and found it to be odorless, lightweight, and non-greasy. It absorbs quickly and is gentle on skin, plus it's a budget-friendly alternative to many facial products. I also appreciate that it contains no artificial fragrances or harmful chemicals."

"The product arrived faster than expected and was securely packaged. I like that it's factory sealed and labeled with a date. When used for cooking, it is completely neutral in taste and doesn't leave any pork flavor, which makes it ideal for baking and skillet use."

"I'm planning to use this lard for soap making. It seems to be a great quality product for that purpose."

#TOP 3

SCP South Chicago Packing Wagyu Beef Tallow 42oz

SCP South Chicago Packing Wagyu Beef Tallow 42oz Cover

South Chicago Packing Wagyu Beef Tallow, 42 Ounces, Paleo-friendly, Keto-friendly, 100% Pure Wagyu

The SCP Wagyu Beef Tallow is a 42-ounce can of pure, high-quality Wagyu beef fat with a smooth, butter-like texture. This makes it perfect for sautéing, searing, and cooking your favorite dishes with ease. If you follow a Paleo or Keto diet, you’ll appreciate that this product fits perfectly into those lifestyles, offering a clean and approved fat source. It also provides a healthy balance of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, which support your overall well-being. Plus, it’s free from artificial trans fats and partially hydrogenated oils, so you can cook with confidence and enjoy natural, wholesome ingredients.

9.6
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Rich, buttery flavor
  • High smoke point
  • Long-lasting container
  • Versatile for cooking
  • Pure Wagyu tallow

What We Don't Like

  • Packaging may leak
  • Upfront price slightly high

What Customers Say

"I've switched almost entirely to this Wagyu tallow in my kitchen. The flavor is outstanding, and it lasts for months, making it worth the initial investment. It’s great for everything from searing steaks to frying potatoes. This has become my go-to for healthy cooking fats."

"As someone on a keto diet, this tallow is a game changer. The clean, rich taste elevates any dish, and the 100% pure Wagyu quality is impressive. I appreciate how well it performs at high heat and how versatile it is with different cooking methods."

"I love the results I get with this tallow—crisp eggs, caramelized veggies, and restaurant-quality steaks. The only minor issue I’ve had is with the packaging leaking during shipping, but transferring it to another container solved that. Still, the taste and versatility make it a staple for me."

#TOP 4

Stellar 100% Grass-Fed Beef Tallow 5 lbs

Stellar 100% Grass-Fed Beef Tallow 5 lbs Cover

Stellar Beef Tallow 100% Grass-Fed & Finished - Good for Cooking, Baking and Frying - Food Grade (5 lb)

Stellar Beef Tallow is made from pure, grass-fed beef fat, giving you a natural and authentic flavor without any additives. Its high smoke point makes it perfect for frying, roasting, and sautéing, so you can cook your meals safely at higher temperatures without burning. This tallow adds a rich, savory taste to your dishes, enhancing their overall flavor. Plus, it’s very versatile—you can use it for everything from making crispy fries to tender pie crusts, helping you create delicious meals right in your own kitchen.

9.5
FTB Score

What We Like

  • 100% pure beef fat
  • High smoke point
  • Rich, savory flavor
  • Versatile cooking uses

What We Don't Like

  • Difficult packaging to open
  • Slight aftertaste with some foods

What Customers Say

"I use this tallow for most of my frying, especially for eggs and stir-fries, and it always delivers a great, clean flavor. I switched from butter to cut back on fats, and I'm impressed by how well it works for pan-searing meats. The texture is smooth, and I need much less than butter. Highly recommend for anyone wanting a pure cooking fat."

"This is my first time buying tallow, and I'm happy I chose this brand. The smoke point is impressive, and the consistency is perfect for both pan and deep frying. My fish comes out tastier than with vegetable oil, and the flavor is never overpowering. I’m planning on getting a larger container next time."

"As someone following a carnivore diet, this tallow makes all my meat dishes taste rich and satisfying. I also appreciate that it’s organic, grass-fed, and pure—you can really tell the difference in quality. Great value for the health benefits."

#TOP 5

Bacon Up Bacon Grease 14oz Tub 2 Pack

  • Bacon Up
  • 2 Pack
Bacon Up Bacon Grease 14oz Tub 2 Pack Cover

Bacon UpⓇ Bacon Grease for Cooking - 14 Ounce Tub for Cooking, Frying and Baking 2 Pack

The Bacon Up Bacon Grease is a convenient way to add rich bacon flavor to your cooking without any hassle. You can start your recipes easily by scooping some grease to enhance the taste of your dishes. It works great on griddles and cast iron pans, making it versatile for frying or baking. This grease helps you achieve that classic bacon flavor while saving you time and effort in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking breakfast or adding flavor to other meals, this product is designed to make your cooking experience simpler and tastier.

9.5
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Authentic bacon flavor
  • Convenient and time-saving
  • Versatile for many dishes
  • Great for Blackstone griddles
  • High smoke point

What We Don't Like

  • Slightly rich if overused
  • Pricey for frequent users

What Customers Say

"I love how Bacon Up saves me the trouble of rendering my own bacon grease. It delivers a strong, authentic bacon flavor that makes everything—from eggs to burgers—taste amazing. The high smoke point and easy-to-use tub make it perfect for my Blackstone griddle. I just have to be careful not to use too much, since the flavor can be quite intense."

"This product is super clean and smells incredible right out of the container. I use it in lots of recipes, and if you’re a bacon fan, you’ll really appreciate how convenient and tasty it is. I’ve already ordered more!"

"No more cooking tons of bacon just to get grease! Bacon Up works perfectly for fried eggs, potatoes, and pork chops. It’s so much easier and always delivers that authentic bacon taste. I highly recommend it."

#TOP 6

Cornhusker Kitchen Duck Fat Rendered Tub 1.5lbs

Cornhusker Kitchen Duck Fat Rendered Tub 1.5lbs Cover

Cornhusker Kitchen Premium Rendered Tub 1.5lbs (Duck Fat)

The Cornhusker Kitchen Duck Fat is a premium cooking fat made from 100% animal fat, perfect for frying, baking, and adding deep flavor to your meals. This 1.5-pound tub contains pure duck fat with no additives or preservatives, giving you a natural and rich taste. Its high smoke point makes it versatile for various cooking methods like roasting and grilling, ensuring your dishes turn out delicious every time. Whether you’re trying traditional recipes or experimenting with new flavors, this duck fat adds a savory touch that elevates your cooking experience.

9.4
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Versatile cooking uses
  • Rich, delicious flavor
  • High quality
  • Long-lasting tub
  • Healthier than butter

What We Don't Like

  • Slightly higher price
  • Strong scent for non-cooking uses

What Customers Say

"I've found this product to be incredibly versatile, using it for everything from carnitas to seasoning cast iron pans. The quality is top-notch, and it’s become a staple in my kitchen."

"For me, this is a kitchen essential—it’s delicious, easy to cook with, and adds a great boost of flavor to steaks, poultry, and potatoes. I use it in many different recipes and I love how well it melts and cooks."

"I tried using this for making a beard balm and butter, but the scent was too strong for my liking, even after diluting and adding essential oils. It just didn’t work for my non-culinary needs."

#TOP 7

Bacon Up Bacon Grease for Cooking - 14 Ounces, Pack of 1 with Spoon - Premium Rendered Cooking Fat for Frying, Grilling, Baking and Sauteing

  • Bacon Up
  • 14 Ounce
Bacon Up Bacon Grease for Cooking - 14 Ounces, Pack of 1 with Spoon - Premium Rendered Cooking Fat for Frying, Grilling, Baking and Sauteing Cover

Bacon Up Bacon Grease for Cooking – 14 Ounces, Pack of 1 with Spoon – Premium Rendered Cooking Fat for Frying, Grilling, Baking and Sauteing

Features

  • Longer Shelf Life - To Maintain Quality And Consistency, The Bacon Bits Are Filtered Out, Leaving A Tub Of Beautiful, Creamy Bacon Grease With A “Use By” Date Of 18 Months From Its Fill Date.
  • Great For Griddles, Cast Iron Too! - Bacon Up Is Perfect To Condition, Clean, And Cook With. It Protects And Prepares The Surface AND Adds A Layer Of Delicious Flavor That Other Oils Don't Have. You'll Get Ideal Results Every Time You Sear, Sauté And Fry!
  • Simple Ingredients - Has 0 Trans Fat, 0g Total Carbs, 0mg Of Sodium And No MSG Either. This Bacon Fat Is A Go-To For People Who Prefer Products With Simple Ingredients Without Unnecessary Additives.
9.4
FTB Score
#TOP 8

Straight from France Duck Fat 170g

  • Straight from France Genuinely French
  • 6 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Straight from France Duck Fat 170g Cover

Straight from France Genuinely French, All Natural Duck Fat for Cooking from Southwest France, Keto and Paleo Diet Friendly, Can 170g 6oz

The Straight from France Duck Fat is a pure, filtered fat sourced from cage-free ducks raised in southwest France, ensuring premium quality for your cooking needs. This duck fat is packed with heart-healthy fats and essential nutrients like Vitamins E and K, making it a healthier choice compared to other animal fats. With a high smoke point of about 375°F, it lets you cook foods like potatoes and meats to crispy perfection without burning. Plus, its rich flavor enhances a variety of dishes, from sautéed veggies to classic French recipes, adding delicious taste and great cooking performance.

9.3
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Great flavor
  • Heart healthy
  • Richness in cooking
  • Good fat content

What Customers Say

"I tried this brand for the first time and was pleasantly surprised by how delicious it is—definitely worth the purchase!"

"I found it to be a fun and unique ingredient to cook with, and I appreciate that it's also good for my heart."

"This added just the right amount of fat and brought extra richness and depth to my homemade stock."

#TOP 9

Cornhusker Kitchen Berkshire Pork Fat Lard

Cornhusker Kitchen Berkshire Pork Fat Lard Cover

Cornhusker Kitchen Berkshire Pork Fat Lard 1.5lbs

Cornhusker Kitchen Berkshire Pork Fat Lard is a premium open kettle rendered pork fat lard. Made in the USA, this lard contains no preservatives or artificial ingredients. It is conveniently refrigerated after opening to maintain freshness. This lard is perfect for various cooking needs. Whether you're frying, sautéing, or baking, this lard enhances the flavor and texture of your dishes. Its high smoke point makes it ideal for high-temperature cooking, ensuring that your food cooks evenly and retains its natural flavors. With Cornhusker Kitchen Berkshire Pork Fat Lard, you can enjoy the rich taste and versatility of this high-quality lard.

9.1
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Rich, clean flavor
  • High heat cooking
  • Makes crispy fried foods
  • Versatile for baking and searing
  • Enhances food texture

What We Don't Like

  • Potential freshness issues
  • Packaging size could be larger

What Customers Say

"If you've ever tried Berkshire pork, you'll notice a huge difference in flavor and quality compared to supermarket pork. The fat in this product is incredibly clean and neutral, adding amazing mouthfeel without being heavy or greasy. It's my go-to for pan frying and searing, especially for chicken, pork, and even fish after sous vide. I've mostly replaced vegetable oils with this because it enhances flavor, doesn't cause heartburn, and isn't absorbed excessively by food. Truly a remarkable product, although I wish it came in bigger tubs."

"This tub of lard has become a kitchen staple for me! It melts smoothly, makes pie crusts and fried foods super crisp, and is perfect for both baking and roasting. The quality is excellent and it lasts a long time. I highly recommend it for anyone serious about cooking."

"I was disappointed when I opened my tub because the lard was mostly liquid with white chunks floating in it, even though it was stored in a cool garage. It should have been solid. I ended up tossing it out and couldn't use it for my pie crust as planned. Lesson learned about checking freshness sooner."

#TOP 10

Ketostat American Beef Tallow 7 lbs

Ketostat American Beef Tallow 7 lbs Cover

Amercian Beef Tallow 112 oz (7 lbs) For Cooking or Skincare

Ketostat Beef Tallow is made from pure, high-quality beef fat without any additives, giving you a natural and wholesome product. This makes it perfect for cooking, as it adds a rich, beefy flavor that can enhance meats, vegetables, and baked goods, making your meals more delicious. It's also packed with healthy fats like CLA and Omega-3s, which support keto and paleo diets by providing essential nutrients. The large 7-pound container makes it easy to store and use whenever you need it, whether in the kitchen or for skincare purposes.

8.9
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Clean, high-quality tallow
  • Excellent for frying and baking
  • Large quantity, good value
  • Enhances flavor, especially for meats
  • Minimal odor, easy to scoop

What We Don't Like

  • Shorter shelf life than expected
  • Packaging lid mildly inconvenient

What Customers Say

"I've completely switched to this tallow for cooking—it’s so clean and makes everything taste incredible. It’s now my go-to for baking and frying. The subtle, beefy aroma at higher temps is just like homemade broth."

"After trying this for deep frying, I can say my turkey turned out the juiciest ever—my family couldn’t stop talking about it! I needed several tubs for a big batch, but it was totally worth it."

"This is the best value I’ve found for beef tallow. The quality is outstanding and the large tub lasts me months. Only minor gripe: the lid was a bit stubborn, so I transferred some to a smaller container for daily use."

Lards Comparison Table

#TOP 1 SCP LARD Specialty Baking Shortening and Cooking Fat, 42 Ounces Cover

SCP LARD Specialty Baking Shortening and Cooking Fat, 42 Ounces

#TOP 2 SULU ORGANICS 4 LBS Pork Lard Cover

SULU ORGANICS 4 LBS Pork Lard

#TOP 3 SCP South Chicago Packing Wagyu Beef Tallow 42oz Cover

SCP South Chicago Packing Wagyu Beef Tallow 42oz

#TOP 4 Stellar 100% Grass-Fed Beef Tallow 5 lbs Cover

Stellar 100% Grass-Fed Beef Tallow 5 lbs

#TOP 5 Bacon Up Bacon Grease 14oz Tub 2 Pack Cover

Bacon Up Bacon Grease 14oz Tub 2 Pack

#TOP 6 Cornhusker Kitchen Duck Fat Rendered Tub 1.5lbs Cover

Cornhusker Kitchen Duck Fat Rendered Tub 1.5lbs

#TOP 7 Bacon Up Bacon Grease for Cooking - 14 Ounces, Pack of 1 with Spoon - Premium Rendered Cooking Fat for Frying, Grilling, Baking and Sauteing Cover

Bacon Up Bacon Grease for Cooking - 14 Ounces, Pack of 1 with Spoon - Premium Rendered Cooking Fat for Frying, Grilling, Baking and Sauteing

#TOP 8 Straight from France Duck Fat 170g Cover

Straight from France Duck Fat 170g

#TOP 9 Cornhusker Kitchen Berkshire Pork Fat Lard Cover

Cornhusker Kitchen Berkshire Pork Fat Lard

#TOP 10 Ketostat American Beef Tallow 7 lbs Cover

Ketostat American Beef Tallow 7 lbs

Brand SCP South Chicago Packing SULU ORGANICS SCP South Chicago Packing STELLAR CHEMICAL CORP Bacon Up Cornhusker Kitchen Bacon Up Straight from France Genuinely French Cornhusker Kitchen Ketostat
Units 42.0 Ounce 64.0 Ounce 42.0 Ounce 80 Fluid Ounces 9.3 Ounce 24.0 Ounce 14.0 Ounce 6.0 Ounce 24.0 Ounce 112.0 Ounce
Item Form Solid Solid Solid Tallow Solid Solid - Solid Solid Solid
Item Weight 42 Ounces 4 Pounds 42 Ounces 5 Pounds 14 Ounces - - 6 Ounces 1.5 Pounds 7 Pounds
Allergen Information Gluten Free Gluten Free, Non-GMO, Nut Free Gluten Free - - - - Allergen-Free, Preservative-Free - Beef
Package Weight 1.36 Kilograms 7 Pounds - 2.6 Kilograms - 0.77 Kilograms - - 0.74 Kilograms -
Flavor - - Beef Beef - Duck Fat - Pure non flavored duck fat. - Beefy
FTB Score
9.9
9.8
9.6
9.5
9.5
9.4
9.4
9.3
9.1
8.9
Where to Buy

Buyer's Guide: Best Lards

Choosing Lard

Lard is a type of fat commonly used in cooking, especially in the preparation of traditional dishes. It is obtained from the fatty tissue of pigs, and has been a staple ingredient in many cuisines for centuries. However, with the rise of healthier eating habits and concerns about the ethical treatment of animals, lard has fallen out of favor in recent years.

Despite this, lard remains a valuable ingredient for those who appreciate its unique flavor and cooking properties. In this article, we will explore the different types of lard available on the market and provide some tips on how to choose the best option for your needs.

Rendering Lard

Lard is made by rendering the fat from pork tissue. This process involves slowly heating the fat, which causes it to melt and separate from any connective tissue or impurities. The resulting liquid is then strained and cooled, resulting in a solid fat that can be used in cooking.

There are two main types of lard available: leaf lard and fatback. Leaf lard is the highest quality option, as it is obtained from the fat around the pig's kidneys and loin. It has a mild, neutral flavor and is often used in pastry dough and other delicate dishes. Fatback, on the other hand, is obtained from the fat layer on the pig's back and has a stronger, more pronounced flavor. It is often used in savory dishes and as a cooking fat.

Purity and Quality

When choosing lard, it is important to pay attention to the purity and quality of the product. Look for lard that has been rendered from high-quality pork fat, and avoid lard that has been hydrogenated or treated with chemicals.

It is also a good idea to look for lard that has been rendered using traditional methods, as this will result in a purer and more flavorful product. Some producers use organic or heritage breeds of pigs, which are known for their high-quality fat.

Storage and Shelf Life

Lard should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to six months, or in the freezer for up to a year.

When using lard, it is important to remember that it has a relatively low smoke point compared to other cooking fats. This means that it is best suited for medium- to low-heat cooking methods, such as sautéing, braising, and roasting.

Conclusion

In conclusion, lard is a flavorful and versatile cooking fat that has been enjoyed for centuries. When choosing lard, look for products that have been rendered from high-quality pork fat, and avoid lard that has been treated with chemicals or hydrogenated. Store lard in a cool, dry place, and use it in medium- to low-heat cooking methods for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the two types of lard?

There are two types of lard: rendered lard and leaf lard. Rendered lard is fat from the pig that has been melted and filtered without further processing. Leaf lard is considered the highest quality and is made from the leaf-shaped portion of fat around the pig's kidneys. There is also processed lard available.

2. Which is healthier lard or butter?

Lard is considered healthier than butter because it has less saturated fat. Lard contains 20% less saturated fat than butter and is higher in monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for cardiovascular health. It is also rich in oleic acid, the same fatty acid found in olive oil and known for its health benefits.

3. Why is lard no longer used?

Lard fell out of favor when hydrogenated vegetable shortening was invented in the early 20th century. Hydrogenated fats, also known as trans fats, were found to increase the risk of heart disease. This led to a decline in the use of lard as a cooking fat. However, it is now being rediscovered and appreciated for its health benefits.

Editor's Notes

During our lard research, we found 20 lard products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 110,645 customer reviews through our big data system to write the lards list. We found that most customers choose lards with an average price of $28.41.

The lards are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of lards, including SCP South Chicago Packing, SULU ORGANICS, STELLAR CHEMICAL CORP, Bacon Up, Cornhusker Kitchen. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 823 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by

Ashley Abels Avatar

Ashley Abels

Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!