Game versus Biltong beef

Biltong has long been recognized in South Africa as the perfect match for arduous hunting trips, mountaineering expeditions and sitting in on a rugby match. With a growing number of expat communities around the world, biltong, a cured dried meat, has traveled the globe and is gaining popularity among other cultures. Probably because it’s just delicious. In terms of health and convenience for those with an active lifestyle, the biltong has some considerable advantages. Easy to store, lightweight, packed with nutrients and protein, it’s perfect for long trips that require energy and stamina. In terms of being a healthy option, biltong makes a great low-fat snack and is versatile enough to be used as a base for soups and stews. When it comes to choosing between game and beef versions of biltong, it is in many cases a matter of taste. Game biltong is common in South Africa, where indigenous species such as kudu, gazelle or even ostrich have lent their services to create a delicious and healthy meal.

Nutritionally both versions are an excellent source of protein. The fat levels in the meat are affected by the cut, although wild game is almost always lower in fat content than the beef version, be it biltong or other meat products. Typical protein, fat, and calorie content values ​​for these competing animals are shown below.

• Beef biltong: Probably the best known biltong outside of South Africa, it provides, per 25 gram serving, 60 calories, with 1.3 grams of fat and 11.5 grams of protein.

• Games; Springbok Lesser known to non-South Africans, the Springbok is an extremely successful antelope species, successful in that it has one of the largest growing populations despite being very tasty. Each 25 grams of this variety contains 58.5 calories, with 0.2 g of fat and 13.3 g of protein.

• ostrich; Classified as game, but more commonly obtained from farmed birds, this variety also offers a healthy option, if not for the farmer trying to catch it. It provides 57.3 calories with just 0.6g of fat and 12.2g of protein.

It certainly seems that the game varieties of biltong stand out among the weight and health conscious, though beef is still a good choice compared to most other snack options. Since Kudu, Springbok and Ostrich are less easily obtained in the UK, other versions of the biltong game are available.

Venison is the most common game version of biltong favored by expats and converts alike. This, like South African game biltong, is considered leaner and contains less fat than beef, although the lead content may be higher, go figure.

Ultimately, biltong is an extremely healthy, adaptable, and wholesome base for a meal. While it can be used as a base for soups or stews, it is an ideal high-protein, low-fat energy source for those who participate in active outdoor sports such as running, mountaineering, cycling, and athletics. The choice between beef or game versions is largely personal and whichever you choose, you’ll find it more satisfying than a dusty old cereal bar and healthier than a packet of chips!