Meadowlark Apothecary: How To’s & Frequently Asked Questions

Have a question about our products, ordering, or shipping policy? See our FAQ below and don’t hesitate to contact us if your question is not answered.

We always recommend testing the product on a small patch of skin to ensure no allergies.  Please consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

These products have not been approved by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose or treat.

  • We use pork tallow because we’ve physically seen the difference it has made in our own skin and our family’s skin. It was the skincare of our ancestors, and they knew what they were doing!

    Pasture-raised pork tallow is INCREDIBLY high in Vitamin D. Pigs are extremely efficient at processing sunlight and storing it in their fat as Vitamin D.

    Our skin cell membrane is made up primarily of fatty acids, and pork tallow has the most similar fatty acid profile. Because of this, tallow products (including vitamins and fatty acids) are thoroughly absorbed, truly feeding your skin. No plant-based or synthetic skincare can in any way compare to tallow in how tallow nourishes and heals the skin - nor surprising since we are animals and not plants.

    Not only does tallow contain a natural vitamin D and other vitamins, but tallow also contains CLA (conjugated linoleic acid). It truly does NOURISH the skin in so many ways.

    Read more about pasture-raised pork tallow.

  • All of our pork tallow is from humanely raised hogs on our family farm. We are passionate about sustainability (it’s part of the reason we use the whole hog). We give our pigs the BEST lives - including lots of sunshine, pasture grazing, open air, and of course belly rubs :) We believe we are honoring the lives of the hogs we raise by using the WHOLE hog.

  • When you support a small business, you’re supporting someone’s dreams! Meadowlark Apothecary utilizes pork tallow from our small, veteran-owned farm and is a small, family operated business located near Adair, IA. We take pride in handcrafting our products in small batches with high quality, effective ingredients.

    The name ‘Meadowlark’ comes from Heather’s childhood. As a child, she stayed often with her grandparents on the very same farm. Often, in the mornings, she’d hear meadowlarks while she laid in bed. The meadowlark call still brings a sense of fulfillment and love to this day.

  • Tallow prefers a temperature that is not too hot, and not too cold. Extreme heat may cause tallow to melt, while freezing temperatures may cause tallow to lose its texture. We recommend storing your products in a cool, dark place. Don't worry! If accidentally your whipped tallow gets too hot and it melts, it won't affect the integrity of the ingredients - only the texture. You can get the frosting-like consistency back by simply whipping it with a mixer.

    Our products are made without the use of preservatives, fillers, or harsh chemicals. In order to maximize product life, please avoid getting water in the jar. Pork tallow is shelf stable for 12 months, and up to 18 months when stored in the refrigerator.

  • Nope! Start with a small amount of product and let the warmth from your fingers melt it into your skin. Since our skin’s pH level is so similar to pork tallow, you’ll be surprised at how your skin readily accepts the product. Also, remember that a little will go a long way! Our products are highly concentrated meaning they contain no water or fillers, you only need a small amount to nourish your skin.

  • Because we use real herbs and medicinal flowers in our products, the color may change from batch to batch because of naturally occurring colors in petals and plants.

  • We are! You can currently find Meadowlark Apothecary products at Rustic Swan in Ankeny, IA (with more retail locations on the way!) For wholesale opportunities reach out to us at: sydneymeadowlark@gmail.com

  • Absolutely! We are always formulating new pork tallow products infused with the power of plants. Join our email list for new product drops and sales!

  • Because we are a small business please allow 2-3 business days for products to ship after ordering. Once we have a tracking number, it will be sent to your email, so you’ll be able to track your package.

  • Yes! We offer free shipping on orders of $30 or more (promo code: FREESHIP30) & option of free local pickup!

  • We understand that some things just don't work out! If you are unsatisfied with a product you selected for any reason, we are always happy to make recommendations for alternative products.

    We guarantee the purity, freshness, and authenticity of all of our products; unfortunately, and without exception, we cannot accept returns of products that have been opened.

    Because we prepare our products in small batches, please note that variations in consistency, scents, and or color are all possible from batch to batch. We use natural ingredients, which are not identical, naturally change in nature, and can cause variations in final products.

    If you have any questions or concerns within 30 days of receiving your products concerning damages, please contact us. If a return is issued, it will be in the form of store credit. Inquiries after 30 days will not be considered.