July 21st is National Junk Food Day and that is the perfect excuse to indulge in our favorite guilty pleasures, from crispy fries to juicy burgers.
But while we’re enjoying these treats, it’s important to explore the journey the by-products of our junk foods take (like what happens to the oil they are cooked in which is aptly called used cooking oil or UCO), and how the journey of those by-products contributes to a more sustainable world.
The Role of Rendering in Sustainability
Agricultural rendering is a critical process that transforms otherwise wasted animal fats and used cooking oils into valuable upcycled products. Rendering not only helps in reducing food waste but also greatly contributes to sustainability by converting these by-products into biofuels and renewable diesel. This process plays a significant role in reducing our reliance on fossil fuels, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, and promoting a circular economy.
From Fries to Fuel
When you think of French fries, the first thing that comes to mind is their deliciously crispy texture, achieved by frying them in oil. But once the oil has been used, what happens to it? Does it just get thrown away? Well, thanks to renderers that is not the case!
Renderers can pick up the used cooking oil your French fries were cooked in and, through the rendering process, transform that otherwise wasted UCO into biofuel and renewable diesel. This biofuel can power vehicles and machinery providing a cleaner alternative to traditional fossil fuels making it a viable and sustainable substitute. If renderers did not collect and upcycle this used cooking oil, it would most likely just be poured down the drain, causing damage to water systems and undue pollution.
Enhancing Junk Food with Beef Tallow
But there is more to the rendering story than just potentially fueling vehicles with the by-products of your French fries, when it comes to junk food…
Did you know that any time you cook bacon in a pan you are a renderer yourself? It’s true, you are rendering the fat from that bacon (the fat is what is left in the pan afterwards – better known as bacon grease) which you can use to cook with to add incredible flavor. Well, some renderers collect that rendered fat as well, in the form of things like delicious and natural beef tallow.
While used cooking oil finds a new life in biofuels, another exciting aspect of agricultural rendering is the use of beef tallow in cooking. Beef tallow, rendered from beef fat, is a traditional cooking fat that is making a comeback for its natural zero carb profile, superior taste, and high smoke point. When it comes to junk food, especially fried items, and burgers, cooking with beef tallow can significantly elevate the flavor profile.
The Flavor Advantage
For those who choose to eat meat beef tallow imparts a rich, savory taste that is hard to replicate with other cooking oils. For instance, French fries cooked in beef tallow are known for their exceptional crispiness and deeper flavor. Similarly, burgers seared in beef tallow boast a juicier, more flavorful bite. This is why some of the most renowned fast-food chains and gourmet restaurants opt for beef tallow to achieve that unbeatable taste.
Enjoy the Junk Food; Appreciate the Renderers
National Junk Food Day is not just about indulging in your favorite treats but also an opportunity to appreciate the innovative ways we can repurpose by-products from these foods. Thanks to renderers and the rendering process used cooking oil from our beloved junk foods is transformed into sustainable biofuel, contributing to a greener planet. Additionally, incorporating beef tallow into our cooking can elevate the taste of junk food, making every bite more delicious.
So, this National Junk Food Day, enjoy your fries and burgers, and take a moment to appreciate the journey of used cooking oil and beef tallow from potential waste to sustainable wonder – and maybe feel just a little less guilty giving in to your fried cravings (especially on National Junk Food Day).
Here’s to tasty treats and a more sustainable future!
