Is Lard Keto?

Animal Fats
Lard sticker illustration
KETO VERDICTYES

Lard is excellent for keto: 0g net carbs and a traditional, versatile cooking fat. Use quality, non-hydrogenated lard for frying, roasting, and baking; leaf lard is ideal for pastries due to its neutral flavor.

Lard is excellent for keto: 0g net carbs and a traditional, versatile cooking fat. Use quality, non-hydrogenated lard for frying, roasting, and baking; leaf lard is ideal for pastries due to its neutral flavor.

  • Net carbs (100g)0g
  • Fat (100g)~100g
  • Keto verdictKeto-friendly

NUTRITION FACTS

Per 100g (raw)

Net Carbs
0g
Total Fat
~100g
Saturated Fat
Varies by source
Calories
~884–900

Source: USDA FoodData Central

WHY IT'S KETO-FRIENDLY

  • Zero net carbs—pure fat that fits keto macros perfectly
  • Reliable cooking medium for sautéing, roasting, and frying
  • High satiety—adds richness that helps control appetite
  • Works in both savory dishes and keto baking (leaf lard)
  • Helps absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) from foods

HEALTH BENEFITS

  • Provides oleic acid (MUFA) and saturated fats that are heat-stable for cooking
  • Can improve meal satisfaction, aiding portion control
  • Supports absorption of fat-soluble vitamins when eaten with vitamin-containing foods
  • Naturally free of carbs and sugars
  • Lower in polyunsaturated fats than many seed oils
  • When sourced from pasture-raised pork, may contain small amounts of vitamin D

PREPARATION SUGGESTIONS

HIGH-HEAT FRYING

Use for frying pork-rinds, chicken wings, or fish; refined lard handles pan-frying well.

KETO BAKING

Swap for butter/shortening in pie crusts, biscuits, and pastries—leaf lard yields superb flakiness.

REFRIED VEGETABLES

Make refried cauliflower rice or mashed turnips in lard for rich, savory flavor.

CARNITAS AND ROASTS

Slow-cook pork-shoulder or chuck-roast submerged in lard for tender, flavorful meat.