What does fact checked mean?
At Healthfully, we strive to deliver objective content that is accurate and up-to-date. Our team periodically reviews articles in order to ensure content quality. The sources cited below consist of evidence from peer-reviewed journals, prominent medical organizations, academic associations, and government data.
The information contained on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of a professional health care provider. Please check with the appropriate physician regarding health questions and concerns. Although we strive to deliver accurate and up-to-date information, no guarantee to that effect is made.
Is Cooking With Lard Healthy?
The American Heart Association recommends limiting fat to no more than 25 percent to 35 percent of total daily calories -- roughly 500 to 700 calories or between 56 and 77 grams of total fat per day for those on a 2,000 calorie-per-day diet 3. While cooking with lard can create tasty meals, you should do it sparingly to avoid taking in too much saturated fat.
About Lard
Lard is a type of pig fat available in both rendered and unrendered forms. While lard can be used for a number of purposes -- including as a base for soap and in certain types of biofuel -- it is most often used as an alternative to butter and other fats. In fact, its mild flavor, delicate texture and pleasing mouth feel make lard a popular choice for cooking and baking. In addition to being used as an ingredient in cookies, pie doughs, and other similar desserts, lard may be used to fry chips, french fries and some breaded meats.
- Lard is a type of pig fat available in both rendered and unrendered forms.
- In addition to being used as an ingredient in cookies, pie doughs, and other similar desserts, lard may be used to fry chips, french fries and some breaded meats.
Lard Nutrition
Substitute for Flax Oil
Learn More
There are approximately 115 calories in one serving of lard, along with roughly 13 grams of total fat and 5 grams of saturated fat. Someone who follows a 2,000-calorie-per-day diet and eats just one serving of lard is consuming between 20 and 25 percent of the daily allowance of total fat and 33 percent of the daily allowance of saturated fat. Lard also contains about 6 grams of monounsaturated fat and 1.5 grams of polyunsaturated fat in a single serving.
Saturated Fat Basics
Saturated fat is a major part of the fat in lard. Regular consumption of saturated fats has been linked to serious chronic health conditions, including heart disease and breast, colon and ovarian cancers. In addition, the high calorie content in a single serving of lard means that it can lead to significant weight gain when eaten in excess. People with a body mass index -- BMI -- of greater than 25 may be at risk of developing hypertension, diabetes and certain types of dementia.
- Saturated fat is a major part of the fat in lard.
- In addition, the high calorie content in a single serving of lard means that it can lead to significant weight gain when eaten in excess.
Cooking With Lard
Are Avocados High in Omega-3?
Learn More
The high number of calories, total fat and saturated fat in a single serving of lard means that it is not a healthy choice. While there is some unsaturated fat in a serving of lard, the amount is not high enough to negate the dangers associated with the saturated fats. Instead of cooking with lard, consider healthy fats like canola, walnut, flaxseed or soybean oil. While these are high in calories, they may reduce the risks posed by lard and other saturated fats.
- The high number of calories, total fat and saturated fat in a single serving of lard means that it is not a healthy choice.
- While these are high in calories, they may reduce the risks posed by lard and other saturated fats.
Related Articles
References
- Nutrition Therapy and Pathophysiology; Marcia Nelms et al.
- The Fannie Farmer Cookbook; Marion Cunningham
- American Heart Association: Know Your Fats
- USDA National Nutrient Database: Lard
Writer Bio
Kathryn Vera holds a master's degree in exercise physiology, as well as licensure as a Registered Dietitian. Currently, she works as a Clinical Exercise Physiologist in Cardiac Rehabilitation, where she provides care to patients living with chronic heart disease.