5 Fun Facts About Biltong

There are so many things to love about Biltong. Originating from South Africa, this delicious cured and air-dried snack not only tastes great, it’s an all-rounder treat that can be eaten daily without the guilt trip. Let’s explore some fun facts about biltong and the multiple reasons why everyday Australians are incorporating biltong into their daily dietary routine.

1.   Did you know biltong is cured and air dried, which helps to preserve and increase its shelf life?

Biltong was actually developed over 400 years when the Dutch used salt and vinegar to cure and dry their meat to preserve it for long journeys.

Curing: One of the main benefits of curing meat with salt and spices is that it helps to draw out the moisture content; and is one of the key elements in preventing bacteria and other nasties in our food. This also makes it super versatile because it not only extends the shelf life of biltong meat products (meaning no refrigeration is required), it makes it more than ideal for longer term storage, travelling and transportation purposes.

To add to that, the curing process allows the salt and spices to penetrate deep into the thicker parts of the meat the process of curing all the spices and salt, penetrates deep into the thicker parts of the meat, bringing out its rich, authentic flavour that Protea Foods biltong is known for. The flavour often results in a delicious savoury and flavoursome snack that is healthy and delicious.

Air drying: Biltong is usually air dried in a highly controlled environment, enabling even more excess moisture to be removed from the meat. It also eliminates any further possibility of spoilage, viruses and pathogens, effectively minimising the growth of harmful micro-organisms.

Furthermore, the longer biltong is air dried, the better it tastes.  In fact, the slow cooking the drying process is one of the unique features of biltong and is what clearly separates it from other dried processed meats such as jerky and other fast dried counterparts.

Furthermore, when air dried, biltong still retains its meaty tenderness, allowing the meat to develop a softer texture rather than a hardened strip of meat.

2.   Great Nutritional Value

If you’re wondering if it’s possible to find a high protein snack that is low in sugar and carbs, then look no further than Protea Foods biltong. Due to its nature, a standard 100g serving of biltong   Since biltong is dehydrated, you will find if you eat a standard 100gm serving, it has a much higher protein density compared to other protein snacks, keeping you full and satisfied for longer   Unlike other meat preservation methods such as smoking, (which can break down nutrients) and further reduce its nutritional value, biltong preserves nutrients better through the air drying and curing process.

Biltong can pack up to 50–60g of protein per 100g — that’s more than double the protein found in a grilled chicken breast!

3.   It’s Lightweight & Easy to Carry

Throw it in your gym bag, carry it in your handbag or keep it in your pocket when hiking, for a quick and easy snack on the go. It’s so lightweight, you won’t even know it’s there. As we’ve mentioned earlier, the drying process of the meat removes the moisture content, resulting in a lightweight food product that is easy to carry wherever you go.

Protea Foods biltong has travelled the world providing our customers with an ultra portable, highly nutritious snack that for their adventures. From the hot, dry conditions of Wadi Rum in Jordan; to the chilling sub-zero summit of Mount Everest; to tropical forests the Kokoda Trail in Papua New Guinea; and to wondering the streets and museums of Paris, our biltong has logged lots of frequent flyer miles.

4.   Healthy Post- Workout Snack 

Yes, there’s a protein shake. Yes, there is fruit. And yes, there is protea Foods biltong. Biltong is fast becoming the ‘go to’ snack for serious health enthusiasts. Not only is it one of the healthier snack options on the supermarket shelf, it is typically low in carbohydrates, making it an impressive choice for those on serious low carb and keto diets.

Given there are no added nasties or preservatives either, biltong is a cleaner, more natural post workout snack perfect for guilt free eating.

 Australian Rules Football clubs, The Western Bulldogs and Port Power have used Protea Foods as a post-workout snack as part of the diet regime.  Watch the video here.

5.   Adds a Touch of Gourmet When Paired with Other Foods

Protea Foods Biltong always adds a touch of artisan appeal when paired with other foods such as cheese, pickles, crackers, dried fruits and antipasto spreads. Often made in smaller batches, it further adds to its versatility and gourmet feel when preparing things such as an outdoor picnic, cheese board or event platter.

In addition to that, when paired with other foods, it also brings a nice balance to other contrasting tastes., making it the perfect addition to any party or social outing.  

Next time you consider putting together a charcuterie board for a party, perhaps think of biltong and surprise your guests with it unique flavour and savouriness.

In summary, we believe Protea Foods biltong is the bomb when it comes to flavour, texture and nutritional benefits. Why not give it a try and let us know what you think? We’d love to hear from you.

Check out our online store for a diverse range of delicious biltong snacks.