Self-rendering combo suet ?

I have been having difficulty obtaining suet from the grocery store lately - when they do have it, they seem to charge as much or more than just buying the preformed suet cakes. I recently started saving my rendered fats from cooking (burger, bacon, chicken, etc.) pouring it into empty suet cake forms kept in the freezer, and feeding that to the birds. They love it. BUT, I'm now wondering if perhaps the nitrates in the bacon grease may not be the best thing for the little critters. Any info on this? Thanks for any insight. Deb

I'll bump this up for all to see.

Yes, best to avoid bacon fat. It won't be seriously poisonous for birds, but probably not a good long-term diet for them. Ditto to fat from salted meat.

Maybe ask at local farmer's markets for fresh suet?

Resin

Thanks for the insight. I used to be able to get free suet for the asking, then had to pay about 50 cents a pound, now it's up to a buck a pound+ if I can find it, which is pretty slim pickings. I like making my own cakes (especially with my grand daughter) and will continue saving my fat but perhaps not from processed meats. Deb