Becca and Joey Hilby consider themselves first-generation farmers as they lead the way on the family farm with modern practices, livestock and products. The family raises corn, soybeans and hay, as well as cattle, pigs, chickens and goats Hilby Family Farm. Hilby Family Farm’s newest venture is producing farm-to-table candles from beef tallow.
“I realized how much beef tallow was wasted in animals, so I discovered that I could make candles with it,” Becca shared. “I love it; it’s something that gives me a creative outlet and a way to use every bit of our beef.”
Why choose beef tallow candles?
Beef tallow candles are an eco-friendly candle option. Zero waste beef tallow candles are made using cattle processing residues that would otherwise be thrown away.
Hilby Family Farm candles are made from approximately 75% tallow and 25% beeswax. Becca adds beeswax to harden the candles and make them last longer.
What is beef tallow?
Beef tallow is fat that comes from cattle. Traditionally, tallow was used in cooking due to its high smoke point, making it excellent for frying and baking. Outside of the kitchen, beef tallow has a surprising number of uses. Its nutritional profile makes it a sought-after ingredient in high-quality soaps, moisturizers and candles due to its velvety, nourishing properties.
How tallow candles are made “from farm to table”.
Becca’s candles are made right in her kitchen. She melts the sebum herself, heating it to a liquid state and straining out any imperfections to cleanse it. Then he lets it harden, melts the tallow and adds beeswax and fragrance to the candle. Becca chooses the cleanest and safest fragrances she can find.
“It’s nice not only to use all the animals, but also to feel good about the candles that you burn at home with your children,” Becca said.
Supporting local and sustainable lifestyles
When you shop at Hilby Family Farm, you do more than just buy a candle. You support a family business by contributing to local sustainability and reducing waste. Every order directly impacts the Hilby family, helping to fund groceries, sports teams and a growing farming operation.
Becca realizes it’s essential to have choice and variety to meet our needs, but buying local when possible helps support families in your community.
Where to buy
Hilby Family Farms Beef Tallow Candles and Wax Melts are available online at: HilbyFamilyFarm.com. Discover their unique, sustainable products and bring the warmth of a zero waste candle to your home this holiday season.
Becca and Joey Hilby are featured on Gather Wisconsin’s Leaders of the Land® segment, in which Wisconsin farmers advance agriculture through their commitment to sustainability.
