Biltong 101: Everything You Need to Know About Biltong in the UK

Looking for authentic biltong in the UK? At Biltong Buddy, we specialise in handcrafted South African biltong, freshly sliced and delivered nationwide. Whether you're searching for a high-protein snack, a low-carb option, or simply the best place to buy biltong online in the UK, you’re in the right place.

With over 15 years in the industry, we’ve perfected the art of traditional air-dried biltong — and once you taste the difference, you’ll understand why fresh really matters.

What is Biltong?

Biltong is a traditional South African dried meat snack, made by curing and air-drying strips of high-quality beef or game. Unlike beef jerky, which is often smoked and heavily processed, biltong is naturally air-dried. This slow process creates a tender texture and deep, savoury flavour.

At Biltong Buddy, we use only premium cuts of meat and time-honoured recipes. Our biltong is freshly sliced and bagged to order — nothing like mass-produced supermarket versions. It’s more tender, more flavourful, and made fresh every single time.

👉 Explore our full [Biltong Collection]

👉 Try something different with our [Drywors Collection]

👉 Can’t decide? Discover [Buddy’s Mix]

👉 Something to Chew in try our [Bites and Stokkies Collection]

Why is Biltong Better Than Beef Jerky?

Natural Drying Process

Biltong is air-dried over several days (sometimes weeks), preserving the natural flavour and nutrients of the meat. Jerky is typically cooked or smoked quickly at high temperatures.

Fewer Additives

Traditional biltong recipes use simple ingredients — salt, vinegar, coriander, and spices. Jerky often contains added sugars, preservatives, and artificial flavourings.

Texture & Flavour

Biltong has a tender yet slightly chewy texture with a rich, savoury depth. Jerky is usually tougher and sweeter.

Protein & Nutrition

Biltong is typically higher in protein and lower in sugar, making it a cleaner snack option for modern lifestyles.

Key Features: Why Biltong is Good for You (And Why You Shouldn’t Feel Guilty!)

High Protein, Low Carb

Packed with protein (up to 50g per 100g serving), biltong helps keep you full and energised without excess carbohydrates.

Low in Sugar

Unlike many packaged snacks, quality biltong contains little to no added sugar — ideal for those reducing sugar intake.

Rich in Vitamins & Minerals

Biltong naturally contains iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, supporting energy levels and overall wellbeing.

Limited Artificial Preservatives

Made using vinegar and natural spices — no unnecessary fillers or shortcuts.

Lean Option Available

Depending on the cut, biltong can be a lower-fat alternative to many processed snack foods.

Because it’s air-dried rather than heavily processed, biltong remains one of the cleanest high-protein snack options available in the UK. It’s perfect for busy professionals, gym-goers, and families looking for better snack alternatives.

Suitable for Popular Diets

Keto Diets

Naturally low in carbohydrates and high in protein and fats, biltong fits well into a keto lifestyle.

Why it works:
•Helps maintain ketosis
•Keeps you fuller for longer
•Satisfies savoury cravings

👉 Try [Original Biltong]
👉 Or [Flippen Lekker Biltong]

Low-Carb Lifestyles

Minimal sugar and simple ingredients make biltong an excellent low-carb snack alternative.

Why it works:

•No carb crashes
•High satiety
•Real food ingredients
👉 Shop [Biltong Collection]

High-Protein Diets

Perfect for gym-goers, athletes, and active lifestyles.

Why it works:

•Supports muscle recovery
•Convenient post-workout snack
•Easy to carry and store
👉 Try [Garlic Pepper Biltong]
👉 Or sample everything with [Buddy’s Mix]

How is Biltong Traditionally Made?

1.Selection of Meat

Only premium cuts of beef (or game like kudu or springbok in South Africa) are used.

2.Curing

The meat is marinated in vinegar (malt or apple cider vinegar), which tenderises and enhances flavour.

3.Spicing

Coated in traditional spices such as coriander, black pepper, and salt.

4.Air Drying

Hung in well-ventilated curing rooms for 5–14 days. This slow drying locks in flavour and creates the perfect texture.

Why Does Biltong Cost More?

Premium Meat Costs

Beef prices fluctuate globally due to farming costs, feed prices, and climate conditions.

Time-Intensive Process

Biltong requires patience — it cannot be rushed without compromising quality.

Quality Ingredients

We never cut corners. No fillers. No cheap substitutions.

Traditional Craftsmanship

Each batch is prepared using time-honoured South African techniques.

Fresh Slicing & Packaging

All online orders are sliced fresh and carefully packed to preserve flavour and texture.

What Does Biltong Pair Well With?

Biltong’s rich, savoury flavour pairs beautifully with:

•Hard cheeses like aged cheddar or gouda
•Bold red wines such as Shiraz or Cabernet Sauvignon
•Crisp lagers or craft ales
•Nuts, olives, grapes, or melon
•Crumbled into salads, scrambled eggs, burgers, or pizzas

It’s not just a snack — it’s incredibly versatile.

Why Choose Biltong Buddy?

At Biltong Buddy, we’re more than just a biltong supplier — we’re a small, family-run business built on passion, tradition, and quality.

With over 14 years of experience in the industry, we pride ourselves on producing premium South African biltong using time-honoured methods and the finest cuts of meat. Every batch is carefully prepared, seasoned, and air-dried to ensure exceptional flavour and texture in every bite.

Because we’re a small business, quality control and customer service truly matter to us. We don’t mass produce. We don’t cut corners. And we don’t compromise on freshness. Every order is freshly sliced to your preference and packed with care — just as we would serve it ourselves.

We believe great biltong starts with great ingredients, but it’s the attention to detail and personal service that keep our customers coming back.

When you order from Biltong Buddy, you’re not buying from a factory — you’re supporting a dedicated family business that genuinely cares about what lands on your doorstep.

Our Freshness Promise

When you order from Biltong Buddy, your biltong arrives as fresh as if you’d walked into our shop and chosen it yourself.

Every order is sliced to your preferred thickness and carefully packed to preserve that authentic taste and texture — no shortcuts, no compromises.

Enjoy your biltong the way it was meant to be enjoyed: fresh, tender, and packed with bold South African flavour.

Ready to Try Authentic Biltong?

Browse our [Biltong Collection], explore our [Drywors Collection], or discover your favourite flavour today.

Fresh, protein-packed South African snacks delivered anywhere in the UK.