Tirupati Laddoo Controversy: What is Beef Tallow and why was it added

The recent row over Tirupati Laddoo and use of beef tallow and fish oil has raised eyebrows. It all started when Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu recently alleged that substandard ingredients and animal fat were used in making the famous Tirupati laddoo, during the previous YSRCP government.
In response, Jagan Mohan Reddy-led YSRC party had denied the charges.Naidu while addressing an NDA legislature party meeting also said that even Tirumala laddu was made with substandard ingredients, they used animal fat in place of ghee.
The CM mentioned that pure ghee is now being used and everything has been sanitised at the temple, leading to improved quality.
But, the matter of concern here is, what beef tallow is and why it was added to the laddoos. Scroll down to read the details.
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What is Beef Tallow?
As per experts, tallow is made by removing, simmering and clarifying the fatty tissue of beef. It is typically used for cooking at high temperatures such as deep frying and roasting. It is made of saturated fat and is similar in texture to soft butter.
How is it made?
The process of making beef tallow involves rendering fat from the fatty tissue around the kidney, resulting in a stable fat that can be stored for longer duration.
Why was it added to Tirupati Laddoo?
As per experts, beef tallow makes for an inexpensive ingredient and is said to be best used for cooking at high temperatures such as deep frying and roasting.
The reports also state that the laddoos used lard as an ingredient. For the uninitiated, lard refers to semi-solid fat made by rendering the fatty tissue of a pig.
Also Read: Animal fat, fish oil used in making Tirupati Laddoos
Are these two ingredients edible?
As per experts, both the ingredients are fit for human consumption.
Benefits and side effects of beef tallow
It is said that Tallow also contains monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are considered healthier. It is also said that Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is one polyunsaturated omega-6 fat found in animal fats and linked to potential health benefits such as preventing plaque buildup in the arteries. It also contains fat-soluble vitamins that are vital for various bodily functions, including boosting immunity, bone health, cellular and skin health. While high-quality tallow is fit for the human body, higher intake of saturated fat is linked to poor heart health and blood vessel disease. And those who are not accustomed to animal fats like beef tallow, may experience digestive discomfort such as bloating and cramps. Tallow is calorie-dense, and excessive consumption without balancing calorie intake can contribute to weight gain and obesity. Diets high in saturated fats, like those containing a lot of beef tallow, may increase inflammation in the body, which is linked to various chronic conditions such as arthritis or metabolic syndrome.
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