Several fast-food chains in the US are transitioning from using vegetable oils to using "beef tallow" in their cooking processes, claiming it to be a healthier option. This movement has gained traction among outlets like Steak ‘N Shake, Popeyes, Buffalo Wild Wings, and Outback Steakhouse, with even independent restaurants joining in. However, health experts are warning against these claims, as seed oils have been found to be linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.

The shift to "beef tallow", which is high in saturated fat, is based on misinformation spread by advocates like Paul Saladino and US health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. These claims allege that seed oils cause inflammation and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. However, research has shown that linoleic acid, found in seed oils, actually reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes, making the switch to animal fats potentially detrimental to health.