Quite simply, because everyone loves it!
Fitness fanatics and salty-snack lusters alike all have their reasons for loving biltong, and we find it to be a hot topic amongst nutritionists, dieticians, food critics. There are even recipe books dedicated to biltong! But, what makes it so special? Why is everyone on the internet talking about Biltong?
The nutritional benefits of biltong are no secret.
It’s naturally high levels of protein make it a tough competitor when choosing between biltong and a protein bar or protein shake. That’s a lot of protein. Let’s take a minute to compare these. We’ll use our smallest pack size of 35 grams Original Biltong to keep it equal.
Biltong vs Protein Shakes
So, whey protein is essentially the protein contained in the watery portion of milk that separates from the curds when making cheese. Milk actually contains two main types of protein: casein (80%) and whey (20%). The average scoop of regular whey protein powder which can be purchased in high street health shops or online delivers between 20 to 25 grams of protein. That’s already a significant amount however for 100 grams of Premium Beef biltong, you’re looking at receiving 61.2 grams. We know realistically, you won’t consume that in one sitting regardless of how much you might like it but that’s at least 21 grams per 35 gram pack. If that’s not an eye-opener, we don’t know what is.
We’d rather not have to tell you either that the consumption of whey protein may cause side effects and digestive issues. Though fast absorbing, some people may experience bloating, gas, stomach cramps and diarrhoea often related to lactose intolerance but not just. Biltong removes that anguish as it’s completely gluten free, therefore curbing bloating and digestive discomfort whilst still bringing you high levels of nutrient goodness.
Biltong vs Protein Bars
To compare with protein bars which are the easier, more practical alternative to a shake, most bars contain whey, soy or pea protein as their protein source. We’ve touched on whey above and similarly; soy and pea protein can also have detrimental effects to our bodies. Whilst pea protein isn’t absorbed particularly well or fast by the body, soy is sometimes genetically modified (GMO) and can negatively affect the thyroid and production of hormones.
Those aside, you may be surprised to know that the problem isn’t in the choice of protein that goes into these bars but more so everything else.
Yes, some bars can contain 30 grams or more of protein however add that to the artificial thickeners, fillers (we don’t mean botox), sweeteners or sugar alcohols and you’ve got a concoction for disguised candy bars dressed up as a healthy snack!
The genuinely healthier options usually contain dried fruits, more often than not, dates. Although highly nutritious and dense in fibres, they are still highly calorific with a sugar content of over 40 percent therefore pushing your controlled sugar levels through the roof. If you’re trying to ditch sugar, snacking on protein bars won’t help you with your goals much.
It could be argued that we, as ardent M-EAT! lovers, are biased and maybe we are a tiny bit. Looking at the facts and considering how health representatives talk about biltong, we can’t help but share what’s good about biltong. We’re convinced that biltong is the new replacement for protein bars and shakes. Aren’t you?