In this post
Can You Eat Biltong on a Keto Diet?
The Best Low-Carb Snack for UK Dieters
Biltong vs Other Popular Keto Snacks: A Nutrition Comparison
Difference Between Biltong vs Jerky for Keto Diets
Where to Buy Keto Snacks in the UK
Across the UK, and the western world generally, more and more health-conscious individuals are embracing the keto diet as their pathway to better health and weight management.
A quick search on Instagram reveals that #keto has around 27 million tags. Yet despite its soaring popularity, many find that starting and sticking to the ‘keto way of life’ can be quite challenging. The biggest hurdle for most dieters is finding delicious snacks that satisfy cravings while keeping those all-important carb counts low enough to maintain ketosis.
In our latest blog post, we're diving into one keto-friendly snack that's capturing the hearts (and taste buds) of British dieters: biltong. We'll shine a light on how this tasty South African dried meat compares nutritionally to other popular keto snacks on UK shelves. Plus, we'll answer the questions our customers ask most frequently and share practical advice on strategic snacking for those using keto specifically for weight loss.
So sit back, snack smart, and let’s chew over why biltong beats the (carb-loaded) competition.
What is the Keto Diet?
The ketogenic diet is a high-fat, moderate-protein, and very low-carbohydrate eating plan that shifts your body's metabolism from burning glucose to burning fat for energy. This metabolic state, known as ketosis, happens when your body produces ketones from fat to use as fuel instead of relying on carbohydrates.
Most keto plans limit carb intake to just 20-50g daily, considerably lower than the standard British diet.
According to the NHS:
"The ketogenic diet is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that has been found to help reduce seizures in some people with epilepsy. There's some evidence that it may help weight loss, lower blood sugar levels, and improve acne."
The benefits many people experience on keto include:
- Steady weight loss
- Fewer hunger pangs
- Better blood sugar balance
- Improved mental clarity
- Sustained energy throughout the day
What is Biltong?
Biltong is a treasured South African tradition- a deliciously seasoned, air-dried beef that has been prepared using similar techniques for centuries. It's crafted by marinating quality cuts of beef in vinegar and a blend of spices, then air-drying the meat for several days until it reaches the perfect texture and flavour.
This delicious South African meat treat has a rich heritage dating back to the indigenous peoples of Southern Africa, whose preservation techniques were later adapted by European settlers. Although not the prettiest picture to imagine, the name itself comes from Dutch words meaning "buttock" (bil) and "strip" or "tongue" (tong), referring to the strips of meat used in its preparation.
Authentic biltong contains just a handful of simple ingredients:
*Premium cuts of beef
*Vinegar (usually apple cider or malt)
*Salt
*Black pepper
*Coriander and other spices
Can You Eat Biltong on a Keto Diet?
Absolutely yes! Biltong is one of the most keto-compatible snacks you'll find in the UK today. When wondering what to eat on keto diet, you’ll be pleased to know that biltong checks virtually all the boxes that make for an ideal low-carb food choice.
With typically less than 1g of carbohydrate per 30g serving, biltong fits comfortably within even the strictest keto carb limits. Aside from the low carb content, authentic biltong is also:
✅ Rich in protein (approximately 50-60% protein by weight)
✅ Contains natural fats from the beef
✅ Contains no added sugars in traditional recipes
For UK dieters, biltong offers clear advantages over many keto snacks that UK supermarkets typically stock. Head to Asda or even more upmarket chains like Waitrose, where you’ll often find a range of " keto-friendly " products. However, lots of these items can contain artificial sweeteners (or questionable ingredients) whilst biltong is a whole food with a short, clean ingredient list.
According to The Nutrition Source, a leading organisation based at Harvard’s School of Public Health, unprocessed protein sources are rated amongst the best foods for keto diet success. Biltong provides a convenient way to enjoy high-quality protein without the carbohydrates that come with many other protein-rich foods.
The Best Low-Carb Snack for UK Dieters
When following a low-carb or keto lifestyle, the right snack can make all the difference: something quick, satisfying, and won’t throw off your macros. Although nuts, natural yoghurt and even pork scratchings are popular keto-friendly treats according to this Reddit post, biltong is fast becoming one of the UK’s favourite keto-friendly foods for a plethora of reasons.
Keto Snacks with Nutrients
Beyond just being low-carb, biltong delivers an impressive nutritional punch. It's packed with iron to keep your energy levels up, zinc for immune support, and B vitamins that help convert food into energy. This makes it not just a permissible keto snack, but a genuinely beneficial addition to your diet.
Convenient Keto Snacks
Let's face it, one of the biggest challenges of maintaining any diet is convenience. Biltong requires no refrigeration until opened, needs no preparation, and can be enjoyed anywhere. Whether you're commuting, at your desk, or out for a hike, this portable protein source is ready when hunger strikes.
Healthy Keto Snacks: Clean Ingredients
In an era of ultra-processed foods with ingredient lists longer than this blog post, biltong's simplicity is refreshing. Traditional recipes use just beef, vinegar, salt, and spices—ingredients your grandparents would recognise as food. For those seeking snacks on a no-carb diet without artificial additives, biltong offers peace of mind.
Satisfying Texture & Taste
The satisfying chew and rich umami flavour of biltong make it enjoyable to eat—not just something you tolerate because it fits your macros. This means you're less likely to feel deprived or crave less keto-friendly alternatives, a crucial factor for long-term diet success. Our range of award-winning biltong even includes flavours like BBQ and Garlic.
Keto Foods for Appetite Control
The protein-fat combination in biltong triggers satiety signals that can help manage hunger between meals. Many of our customers report that small portions, such as our snack bags, keep them feeling full for hours, making it particularly valuable for those transitioning to keto who might be battling initial hunger pangs.
Ready to try the protein snack revolution?
Experience the highest protein content with zero carbs
Our premium biltong products are air-dried to perfection, preserving more nutrients and flavour than any other protein snack on the market.
With 18g of protein per 30g serving and virtually no carbs, it's the perfect snack for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone following a low-carb or keto lifestyle.
Biltong vs Other Popular Keto Snacks: A Nutrition Comparison
If you’ve been following the keto diet for any length, chances are you’ve come across a wide range of keto-friendly snacks, everything from protein bars and flavoured nuts to low-carb crisps and meat snacks. These options can be convenient, but when it comes to long-term health and weight management, it’s worth taking a closer look at what you’re eating.
Just because something fits your daily carb allowance doesn’t always mean it’s the best choice. Many packaged keto snacks are highly processed, high in saturated fats, or loaded with artificial sweeteners and additives. And while they might technically be “keto”, they may not support your overall wellbeing- especially if you're trying to lose weight without compromising your health.
So, how does biltong compare to other popular snacks found in the UK when placed side-by-side? Let’s take a look at the nutritional breakdown per 100g to see how these choices really stack up:
| Nutrient (per 100g) | Biltong | Pork Scratchings | Cheddar Cheese | Mixed Nuts | Beef Jerky |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Energy (kcal) | 273 | 544 | 416 | 607 | 410 |
| Protein (g) | 60 | 61 | 25 | 21 | 33 |
| Fat (g) | 2.3 | 31 | 34.4 | 54 | 15 |
| - of which saturates (g) | 1.0 | 12 | 21.7 | 7.9 | 6.5 |
| Carbohydrate (g) | 2.7 | 0 | 0.1 | 10.5 | 22.8 |
| - of which sugars (g) | 2.3 | 0 | 0.1 | 4.2 | 19.2 |
| Fibre (g) | 0.3 | 0 | 0 | 8.3 | 1.5 |
| Salt (g) | 3.7 | 3.3 | 1.8 | 0.02 | 4.2 |
*All values are approximate and may vary by brand and production method. Biltong stands out with its exceptional protein content, minimal carbs, and low calorie count compared to other popular keto snacks.
Difference Between Biltong vs Jerky for Keto Diets
While jerky has long been a popular protein snack, particularly in the US, more and more UK keto dieters are making the switch to biltong- and it’s easy to see why.
Although both are forms of dried meat, the way they’re made, their nutritional profiles, and even their taste and texture are quite different. Biltong is air-dried slowly over several days, using a traditional South African method that retains more of the meat's natural nutrients and results in a softer, more tender bite.
In contrast, jerky is often cooked or smoked at higher temperatures, which can lead to a drier texture. It’s also more likely to contain added sugars, flavour enhancers, and preservatives: ingredients that don’t always align with a clean, low-carb lifestyle.
These differences matter for those following keto, where every gram of carbohydrate counts. Biltong offers a more natural, flavourful, and nutrient-dense option that seamlessly fits into a low-carb or no-carb approach without compromising quality.
Biltong for Keto Weight Loss
We’ve already covered how biltong is a great fit for the keto lifestyle: high in protein, low in carbs, and made with simple, natural ingredients. But what if your main goal is weight loss? That’s where smart snacking becomes even more important.
Managing your hunger and fuelling your body with the right nutrients at the right times can make all the difference. With biltong, you’ve got a snack that not only keeps you feeling full but also supports your macros without tipping you out of ketosis.
If you browse our online shop, you’ll find plenty of keto-appropriate options to suit your routine. Our tasty 30g Original Biltong Snack Bags are perfectly portioned for on-the-go snacking or a quick protein boost between meals. Prefer to stock up? Our larger sharing bags are ideal for keeping at home or in the office. Just portion out what you need, and you’re good to go.
To help you get the most out of your snacks (and ensure they’re working with your goals, not against them), we’ve put together this handy keto snacking timeline. It includes a few of our favourite pairings and suggestions for keto-friendly snacks that go perfectly with this meaty, flavour-packed treat.
Keto Snacking Timeline to Support Weight Loss
|
Time of Day |
Snack Idea |
Why It Works |
|
☀️ Morning |
Biltong + Black Coffee |
A satisfying, low-carb start to keep you full and focused until lunch. |
|
🌤️ Afternoon |
Biltong + A Handful of Almonds |
Combines protein and healthy fats to beat the midday slump without the carbs. |
|
🏋️ Pre/Post-Gym |
Biltong + Electrolyte Drink |
Helps with muscle recovery and energy levels, especially after a workout. |
|
🌙 Evening |
Biltong + Herbal Tea or Sparkling Water |
A light, guilt-free way to curb cravings and stay on track with your goals. |
Where to Buy Keto Snacks in the UK
Finding quality keto snacks in the UK is easier than ever, thanks to the increasing popularity of the low-carb lifestyle. You’ll now see keto-friendly products popping up in:
Supermarkets – Larger retailers like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and ASDA now stock a growing range of keto products, from bars to shakes.
Health Food Stores – Holland & Barrett, Grape Foods, and Rebel Foods often stock more specialist items.
Online Keto Retailers – Dedicated keto shops and marketplaces offer a broader selection of niche or premium products.
However, when it comes to biltong, not all products are created equal.
At The Original Biltong Company, we pride ourselves on offering premium biltong made the right way using traditional methods, high-quality grass-fed British and Irish beef, and no shortcuts. Unlike mass-produced supermarket versions like Tesco biltong, our range is crafted in small batches for maximum freshness, flavour, and authenticity.
✅ Free UK delivery
✅ Premium cuts of meat only
✅ Traditional South African flavour
✅ No added sugar or artificial preservatives
If you're ready to try a snack that truly supports your keto lifestyle, you can explore our full range right here on our website, including our popular mixed boxes. You can also find limited flavours and discounted products on our specials page.
Is Your Snack Really Keto? How to Spot Hidden Carbs
Just because a snack says “low carb” on the label doesn’t always mean it’s truly keto-friendly. Many processed snacks contain hidden sugars, starches, or additives that can spike blood sugar and stall progress.
Here’s what to watch for when choosing keto snacks:
❌ Common Sneaky Ingredients:
*Dextrose
*Maltodextrin
*Corn syrup or glucose syrup
*Modified starches
*Natural flavours” (can hide sugars)
✅ What to Look For:
*Simple, recognisable ingredients
*Less than 5g net carbs per serving
*No added sugar or artificial sweeteners
*High protein and healthy fats
