Will Biltong Make Me Fat? The Truth About This Snack

So, you've discovered the joys of Biltong. You may have tried it as a tasty alternative to crisps or chocolate. But the question sticks: will this tasty snack add to my waistline? Grab a cuppa and settle in because we're about to get down to brass tacks.

What Exactly Is Biltong Anyway?

Before we get ahead of ourselves, let's quickly go over what we're discussing. Biltong is a fantastic snack option! It has simple ingredients, focuses on wholesome foods, and tastes incredible!

Biltong is a tasty, high-protein snack made through a unique dry-curing method. The Original Biltong Company gets its silverside beef from grass-fed farms in Britain and Ireland. You can also make biltong with other types of protein.

Wondering how biltong compares to beef jerky? Check out this deep dive to see the key differences between the two!

Traditional Biltong is a great snack because it has few ingredients and tastes fantastic.

• Beef 
• Vinegar
• Salt
• Seasonings
  

At The Original Biltong Company, we make our biltong using time-honoured recipes passed down by generations. Today, we bring those recipes to life with advanced drying machines. These machines allow us to monitor everything to create a tasty, handmade snack just for you!

The Good News: Why Biltong Is Good For You

Biltong Nutrition Facts

Serving size (30g)                                                      

Ingredients

Beef, Himalayan Pink Salt, Black Pepper, Coriander, Nutmeg, Onion, Balsamic Vinegar, Potassium Sorbate

Storage Instructions

Store in a cool dry place and consume within 48 hours once opened. Our biltong is made using gluten-free ingredients, no added sugar, no added MSG and no nitrites.

Shelf Life

Typical shelf life is 12 months when stored according to instructions.

Product Information

Made in the United Kingdom
30g serving size
The oxygen absorber in this pack is not for consumption.

Now, for the good news! Biltong boasts some impressive nutritional benefits. Here's the lowdown:

• High Protein: Biltong is packed with protein. Each serving provides substantial protein to energise you throughout the day! Great for muscle recovery, it also helps you feel full!
• Low-Sugar: Instead of grabbing a chocolate bar, try biltong! Grab our high-protein biltong snack packs for an easy post-workout pick-me-up.
• Low-Carb: Biltong is low in carbohydrates, so it's a solid snack if you're watching your intake or following a Keto diet.
• Vitamin & Minerals: This food is an excellent source of iron, which helps boost energy. Vitamin B12 is essential for a healthy nervous system. It also provides minerals like magnesium, potassium, and zinc.
• Allergen, Gluten, and MSG-Free: This product is free from common allergens, gluten, and MSG, making it safe for those with sensitivities.
  

Things to Keep In Mind

Alright, it's time for a bit of realism. While biltong has plenty going for it, there are a few potential downsides to be aware of:

• Sodium Content: The curing process increases biltong’s sodium levels. If you're watching your salt intake, keep an eye on portion sizes.
• Fat Content: Depending on the cut of meat used, biltong can be relatively high in fat. If you're concerned about fat intake, opt for leaner varieties. Explore our range of lean biltong options for a lower-fat alternative.
• Moderation is Key: Like anything else, overeating is never a good idea. Moderation is key!

So, Will It Make You Fat? The Verdict

Ultimately, whether or not biltong contributes to weight gain depends on a few things:

• Portion Size: As with anything, overdoing it on biltong can lead to excess calorie intake. Stick to reasonable portions. A 25-30 grams serving size is generally a good starting point.
• Overall Diet: Biltong can be a healthy addition to a balanced diet, but it is not a magic solution—Prioritise whole, unprocessed foods, including fruits, vegetables, and lean protein sources.
• Type of Biltong: Opting for leaner cuts will help decrease fat content and keep calories low.
• Calorie intake: Biltong is a low-calorie, high-protein snack that is an excellent alternative to other high-calorie alternatives like crisps or chocolate. But don’t expect to lose weight if you eat biltong and other snacks. Maintaining a daily calorie intake below your BMR is generally recommended to lose weight.

In short, biltong can be a healthy and satisfying snack that fits into a balanced diet. Just be mindful of portion sizes, sodium, and fat content. 

Our biltong is an exceptional quality, soft-bite protein snack. Get yours today!

How To Enjoy Biltong As Part Of A Healthy Diet

• Post-Workout Fuel: Biltong's high protein content makes it a perfect post-workout snack. Pair it with a piece of fruit for a balanced snack, or get some inspiration from our recipes.
• Snack Swap Solution: Swap out sugary or processed snacks for a portion of biltong.
• Mealtime Focus: Add biltong to salads, omelettes, or charcuterie boards for extra protein and flavour.
• Travel Buddy: As a dried meat product, it is easy to transport and doesn't spoil, meaning you have a healthy and versatile snack at your fingertips at all times
  

Frequently Asked Questions

What is biltong made of?

Biltong is made with simple, natural ingredients: meat, vinegar, salt, and seasoning. We use high-quality grass-fed beef from British and Irish farms. Our authentic seasoning recipe ensures excellent flavour and texture.

Is Biltong good for you?

Yes! High in protein and low in carbs and fats, depending on your choice. A good source of vitamins and minerals, including Zinc, Iron and vitamin B12. Dried meat is easy to carry and doesn't spoil, making it a healthy snack you can enjoy anytime.

What are the flavours of biltong?

Check out our range of flavours, including Traditional Original, Piri Piri, Smoky BBQ, and Garlic.

Is The Original Biltong Company suitable for specific dietary requirements?

Yes! Our biltong is free of Allergens, Gluten, and MSG. It is also high in protein, low in salt, and free of nitrates.

Right, I'm off to put the kettle on... Enjoy your biltong responsibly!