🍖 The Ultimate Guide to Packaging and Storing Biltong
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Biltong is one of South Africa’s most beloved snacks — rich in flavor, packed with protein, and perfect for anytime snacking. But whether you’re making your own batch at home or selling it to customers, how you package and store biltong determines how fresh and tasty it stays.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the best ways to keep your biltong at its peak, from storage tips to the best packaging methods.
Why Packaging and Storage Matter
Biltong may be dried and cured, but it can still spoil if stored incorrectly. Moisture, temperature changes, and light exposure are the biggest threats to freshness.
Proper storage helps you:
- Extend shelf life 📆
- Preserve flavor and texture 😋
- Maintain food safety ✅
Can Biltong Spoil?
Yes, it can. While traditional methods kept biltong safe for long periods, today’s controlled storage ensures even better quality.
Common spoilage causes:
- Moisture – Promotes mold and bacteria growth.
- Temperature – Above 25°C speeds spoilage, while refrigeration can cause condensation.
- Light Exposure – Degrades flavor and nutrients.
- Microbial Growth – Can occur if storage isn’t airtight.
How to Tell If Biltong Has Gone Bad
1. Texture changes – Slimy, overly tough, or sticky.
2. Unpleasant smell – Sour or ammonia-like odor.
3. Mould growth – Discolored or fuzzy mold (white curing mold is normal, but anything unusual means spoilage).
Best Packaging Methods for Biltong
1. Vacuum-Sealed Bags
Removes all air, protecting against mold and bacteria.
Best for: Long-term storage and shipping.
2. Mylar Bags + Oxygen Absorbers
Blocks light, moisture, and air.
Best for: Bulk and long-term storage.
3. Resealable Ziplock Bags
Quick and convenient for short-term storage.
Best for: Daily snacking portions.
4. Glass or Plastic Jars
Airtight and easy to access.
Best for: Small quantities.
Storage Tips for Maximum Freshness
- Store between 15°C–25°C in a dry place.
- Avoid refrigeration unless vacuum sealed.
- Keep away from humidity above 60%.
- Store away from strong-smelling foods to prevent flavor contamination.
Biltong vs. Beef Jerky – Storage Differences
| Feature | Biltong 🥩 | Beef Jerky 🍖 |
|---|---|---|
| Moisture content | Higher | Lower |
| Shelf life at room temp | 4–7 days | Longer |
| Best storage | Vacuum-sealed / Mylar | Vacuum-sealed |
Claasens Tip: Slice Fresh for Longer Freshness ✂️
If you store your biltong in larger pieces and slice only what you need, it will stay fresher for longer. Claasens Designs Hand Biltong Slicers and Electric Biltong Slicers make this easy, giving you perfectly even slices in seconds while preserving flavor and texture.
Final Takeaway
Packaging and storage make all the difference in enjoying biltong at its best. Use airtight methods, store in cool dry conditions, and watch out for moisture to keep your snack safe and delicious.
With the right care (and the right slicer 😉), your biltong can be enjoyed for weeks or even months without losing its signature taste.