Steak 'n Shake announced it will use 100% [1] all-natural beef tallow to fry its fries and tater tots at all U.S. locations.
This shift represents a strategic alignment with the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) dietary guidelines. By changing its frying oil, the company aims to appeal to supporters of President Donald Trump and other political figures who advocate for the removal of seed oils from the American diet.
The announcement took place on Jan. 16, 2025 [2]. The Indianapolis-based company is implementing the change across its entire domestic footprint to ensure consistency in its new health-focused positioning.
Beef tallow is a rendered fat derived from cattle. The decision to move to 100% [1] beef tallow is a direct response to the growing influence of MAHA principles in the food industry. These guidelines prioritize natural fats over processed vegetable oils, a move the chain believes will resonate with its customer base.
While the company frames the move as a health initiative, some early supporters of the movement have raised questions regarding the specific processes the chain uses to maintain the tallow. Despite these questions, the chain continues to promote the change as a lead in the beef tallow charge.
The transition occurs as more fast-food entities face pressure to disclose ingredient sources and reduce the use of highly processed seed oils in their kitchens.
“Steak 'n Shake announced it will use 100% all-natural beef tallow to fry its fries and tater tots”
The move by Steak 'n Shake signals a growing trend of 'political branding' in the U.S. fast-food sector. By adopting the MAHA dietary framework, the chain is not merely changing an ingredient but is attempting to capture a specific political demographic. This reflects a broader cultural shift where dietary choices, specifically the rejection of seed oils, become markers of political identity and health philosophy.
