Beef biltong vs Jerky

Beef Biltong vs. Jerky: Understanding the Differences and Health Implications

If you’ve ever craved a tasty, protein-packed snack, chances are you’ve come across both biltong and jerky. Though both are forms of dried meat, they are not created equal. Recently, there has been some confusion about biltong’s health impact, particularly after a controversial Health24 article published in 2015 claimed that biltong, along with sausages and bacon, could increase the risk of cancer. But is this claim accurate? And how does biltong stack up against jerky when it comes to health benefits? Let’s dive deeper into this topic.

Biltong and the Cancer Debate: What’s the Real Story?

In October 2015, Health24 published an article stating that “too much biltong, sausages, and bacon causes cancer,” citing a report from the World Health Organization (WHO) that raised concerns about processed foods. While it is true that overconsumption of processed meats can be linked to health risks, the article is misleading when it comes to biltong. This is because biltong is not considered processed meat in the traditional sense.

So, what is biltong exactly?

According to Wikipedia, biltong is a variety of dried meat that originated in South Africa. It is made by cutting raw fillets of meat (beef, game, or ostrich) into strips, and then drying them in natural conditions or in a controlled environment. Biltong is typically seasoned with spices like coriander, salt, and vinegar before it is dried, not smoked or cured. The process of drying meat is a natural preservation method, and dried meat is not considered "processed" in the way that other foods like sausages or bacon are.

What Is Dried Meat?

To better understand why biltong is not a processed meat, let’s explore what “dried meat” actually means. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), dried meat is the result of dehydrating or drying lean meat, which removes a substantial part of its natural tissue fluids. This process prevents spoilage and extends the meat’s shelf life while maintaining most of its nutritional properties, such as its protein content. The drying process is a traditional method used for preserving meat without adding chemicals, preservatives, or artificial flavorings. Examples of dried meats include biltong and meat floss.

How Does Dried Meat Differ from Processed Meat?

Now, let’s compare dried meat to processed meat. Processed meats, as defined by sources like Women's Health Magazine, are typically meats that have been altered beyond just cutting or grinding. These meats are usually smoked, cured, or subjected to other treatments such as the addition of preservatives, nitrates, or artificial flavorings. Processed meats include foods like hot-dog sausages, and bacon—things that have been intentionally altered for preservation, flavor, or texture.

Biltong, however, doesn’t involve these added preservatives or treatments. It’s simply meat that has been dried with spices and vinegar. It doesn’t contain added sugars, nitrates, or artificial flavorings, making it a far healthier option compared to many processed meats.

Health Benefits of Biltong

Despite the misleading claims about its health risks, biltong has numerous health benefits when enjoyed in moderation. It is high in protein, energy, and healthy fats, but low in carbohydrates and sugar. Unlike processed meats, biltong contains no added sugars, making it an ideal snack for those following low-carb or sugar-controlled diets.

Moderation is key: While biltong can be a healthy addition to your diet, it’s important to consume it in moderation. Overeating it, especially varieties that are too salty, can lead to an increase in blood pressure. As with any snack, balance is crucial. The key takeaway is that biltong, when eaten responsibly, can be part of a healthy, energy-controlled diet.

Sliced biltong once or twice a week can be enjoyed as a high-protein snack, adding variety to your meals or offering a satisfying on-the-go bite.

Biltong vs. Jerky: What’s the Difference?

While both biltong and jerky are dried meats, the way they are made, their nutritional profiles, and even their taste are significantly different. Here’s a quick comparison:

• Biltong:
  Biltong is made by cutting lean meat into strips, seasoning it with spices, and then drying it at a controlled temperature (typically around 28°C or 82°F). The drying process takes place in a well-ventilated area, allowing the meat to naturally cure and dehydrate over time. Biltong is typically not smoked and doesn’t require heat, which helps maintain its natural flavor and texture. The result is a nutrient-rich, protein-packed snack that’s naturally preserved.

• Jerky:
  Jerky, on the other hand, is made by cutting meat into thin strips, marinating it in a flavor-infused solution, and then heating the meat to 71°C (160°F) to kill bacteria and ensure food safety. Afterward, the jerky is dried to remove moisture. This heat treatment and marination process give jerky its characteristic texture and flavor. However, it often involves added preservatives, sugars, and other flavorings, making it a more processed option compared to biltong.

Taste and Texture:
The taste of biltong tends to be more savory, with a rich, earthy flavor from the spices and the natural drying process. Its texture can vary from soft to firm depending on how long it is dried, but it’s generally known for being more tender than jerky. Jerky, on the other hand, often has a more intense, smoky flavor due to the marination and heat treatment, and it tends to be drier and chewier than biltong.

Conclusion: Choose Wisely

While both biltong and jerky have their merits as high-protein snacks, they are distinctly different in terms of how they are prepared, their health impact, and their flavors. Biltong is a natural, minimally processed dried meat that’s free from added sugars and artificial preservatives, making it a healthier choice for many. Jerky, while delicious, often contains added chemicals, flavorings, and preservatives that make it a more processed option.

So, when it comes to your health, don’t be misled by the confusion surrounding biltong. It’s a wholesome, nutritious snack when consumed in moderation. Enjoy biltong as a protein-packed treat, and make sure to balance it with other healthy foods to maintain a well-rounded diet.