How To Store Biltong Correctly

Left over biltong? What's that?

In the rare event that you may have biltong left over, that you need to preserve, or, if you are one of our customers who loves our 1kg bulk deals, here is some handy information on how to store biltong correctly.

Rule number 1: Always remember that although biltong is a cured meat, it is PERISHABLE! So once opened, it needs to be consumed 2-3 days after opening. It can be stored for longer if sealed correctly, but we will delve into that later!

Short term storage (2-3 days maximum)

Biltong needs to be kept out of direct sunlight, in a cool dry area.It is a meat product, so it needs to be kept in low temperatures so that it doesn't spoil. A cupboard is ideal, but if you live in a warmer climate (above 20 degrees Celsius), it is highly recommended that you store it in the fridge. It can stay in its original packaging, but true biltong lovers know that its stores best in a brown paper bag. DO NOT place in a sealable plastic bag or plastic container. This is because the plastic doesn't allow it to breath, causing moisture, leading to mould. If its stored in a brown paper bag, the biltong can breath, lengthening its shelf life once opened. Remember, to shake the bag 1-2 times a day, just to move it around, and to let it breath easier. PLEASE NOTE, ONCE OPENED, BILTONG NEEDS TO BE CONSUMED WITHIN 2-3 DAYS! The best before date is an indication on how the product will survive if unopened, once opened, it needs to be consumed in the recommended 2-3 days. If you intend to keep it for longer, read below:

 

Long Term Storage (6 months- 1 year)

If you open the original packaging, but want to store it longer than 2-3 days, for what ever reason, you can store it in the fridge or deep freeze with the CORRECT packaging. Storing biltong like this does make the product last longer, but you will need to invest in a vacuum sealer, oxygen absorbers, and the correct plastic bags, ones that are suitable for your vacuum machine.Failure to find suitable plastic bags will result in the loss of your wonderful biltong!

Fridge storage: Once vacuum packed, you will not have any issues with losing moisture, so its more ideal to store in the fridge than cupboard. Remember to add oxygen absorbers (1 for weights up to 500g, 2-3 for weights up to 2kgs) You need to ensure that you seal the bag correctly, as any oxygen that creeps in, will lead to the product going mouldy. If stored correctly in the fridge, sealed properly, it should last up to 6 months! 

Deep Freeze Storage: Same as above, but place in the deep freeze, and it should give you 1 year on the product.

Disclaimer: The above mentioned methods are only suggestions based off the internet and our own experiences. 4 Hunters will not take responsibility for spoiled product, once it has been opened from the original packaging. We believe biltong should be enjoyed IMMEDIATELY, with every crumb being consumed!!