1) WHAT IS BILTONG? 

Biltong is a type of cured, dried meat that originated in South Africa. It can be made using various types of meat, such as chicken, ostrich or game, but it is most commonly prepared using beef.

2) WHAT IS DROËWORS?

Droëwors is an air- “dried sausage” also originating in Southern Africa. Beef is ground, seasoned and traditionally stuffed into sheep casings and hung to air dry for several days. Spices include salt, pepper, coriander, clove and nutmeg.

3) WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BILTONG AND BEEF JERKY?

While they are similar in that they are spiced, dried meats (and mostly beef), the taste and production processes differ. Jerky is seasoned and smoked and dehydrated, giving it a dry, salty and smoky taste. Biltong on the other hand is cured with salt, vinegar and other spices, and hung to air dry. The result is a thicker and more flavorful meat, with taste elements that are both sweet and salty. Air drying does lead to somewhat of a crusty outside but creates a tender inside without the use of sugars. Low and slow vs warm and quick. Because there is no heat involved, biltong keeps nutrients better than jerky.

4) WHEN DOES BILTONG EXPIRE?

Because of the way biltong is cured and dried to protect it from contamination, the meat will never go bad. Of course the longer you leave it sit, the less likely it will be to hold it’s freshness and full flavor, but the meat itself will not spoil. Our biltong is always fresh and flavorful! Whether this is your first time buying it, or your Hundredth time, we have a feeling that it won’t last long.

5) ARE AIR-DRIED MEATS SAFE?

Yes, if it is made in a controlled environment. The process of air drying is not a commonly used process. Heat treatments, acids and preservatives like nitrates were introduced to dried meats to prevent bacterial growth. However, there are additional factors that can contribute to prevention of bacterial growth without the use of additives and treatments. Temperature, pH control, humidity and water levels can all play a role in ensuring a safe finished product. Years of case studies and testing have been done in this industry and by our company to support air dried meats as USDA certified ready to eat, shelf stable and safe.

6) IS BILTONG HEALTHY FOR YOU?

In short, ABSOLUTELY. Biltong is favored among athletes, hikers, and those on special diets as it is considered a high protein, sugar free, gluten free, low fat snack. Because of the preservation process, biltong keeps most of its protein content, which can be up to 67 percent. Besides being high in protein, biltong contains many other vitamins and minerals, including iron, vitamin B12, zinc, creatine and Vitamin E, which are all vital to our health.

7) WHERE CAN I BUY BILTONG?

Right here! Our biltong store carries a great selection of Biltong, as well as Droëwors and Chili Bites, to meet your satisfaction.

8) HAVE A QUESTION NOT ANSWERED?

Please feel free to send us a question below about anything not answered in our FAQs. We would be happy to answer.