In moderation Butter Smoke point: ~190°C

Lard / dripping

Written by the VitaWhat editorial team · Medically reviewed by Steve Davis · Last reviewed 19 July 2026 · Editorial policy

Rendered animal fat with good cooking properties but high saturated fat.

Pros

  • High smoke point vs butter
  • Crisp results in roasting and pastry

Cons

  • High in saturated fat
  • Animal-derived

Best uses

  • Roasting potatoes
  • Pastry
  • Occasional frying

Sources & references

  1. Harvard T.H. Chan — Fats and Cholesterol
  2. American Heart Association — Healthy cooking oils

Related entries

Avocado oilButterCoconut oilExtra virgin olive oilFlaxseed (linseed) oilGeneric \"vegetable oil\" blend
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