Becca and Joey Hilby consider themselves first-generation farmers because they are blazing their own trail on the family farm by introducing new practices, livestock and products. The family raises corn, soybeans and hay along with cattle, pigs, chicken and goats at Hilby Family Farm. The newest venture of Hilby Family Farm is farm-to-table candle making with beef tallow.
“I realized how much beef tallow goes to waste from an animal, so I discovered that you can make candles with it,” shared Becca. “I love it; it is something that gives me a creative outlet and a way to use every part of our beef.”
Why Choose Beef Tallow Candles?
Beef tallow candles are an environmentally friendly candle option. Creating zero-waste beef tallow candles uses leftovers from cattle processing that would otherwise be discarded.
Hilby Family Farm’s candles are made with approximately 75 percent tallow and 25 percent beeswax. Becca adds beeswax to help harden the candles and give them more longevity.
What Is Beef Tallow?
Beef tallow is fat from cattle. Traditionally, tallow was used for cooking because of its high smoke point, making it great for frying and roasting. Beyond the kitchen, beef tallow has a surprising number of uses. Its nutrient profile makes it a sought-after ingredient for high-quality soaps, moisturizers, and candles because of its smooth, nourishing properties.
How Farm-to-Table Tallow Candles Are Made
Becca’s candles are made right in her kitchen. She renders down the tallow herself, heating it into a liquid to and straining any imperfections to purify it. Then, she lets it harden, remelts the tallow and adds the beeswax and fragrance to the candle. Becca chooses the cleanest, safest scents she can find.
“It’s nice to not only use all of the animal but to feel good about the candles you are burning in your house with your kids,” shared Becca.
Supporting Local and Sustainable Living
When you purchase from Hilby Family Farm, you’re doing more than buying a candle. You’re supporting a family-owned business, contributing to local sustainability and reducing waste. Every order directly impacts the Hilby family, helping to fund groceries, sports teams and their growing farm business.
Becca recognizes it is important to have options and variety to fulfill our needs, but buying local when you can helps support families in your community.
Where to Buy
Hilby Family Farms farm-to-table beef tallow candles and wax melts are available online at HilbyFamilyFarm.com. Explore their unique, sustainable products and bring the warmth of a zero-waste candle into your home this holiday season.
Becca and Joey Hilby are featured as a part of Gather Wisconsin’s Leaders of the Land® segment, which features Wisconsin farmers moving agriculture forward through their commitment to sustainability.