How to Store Biltong and Keep It Fresh

Biltong is naturally cured and air-dried, but it still needs to be stored correctly—especially after the packet has been opened. Moisture, warmth and poor airflow can affect its quality and encourage mould.

The correct storage method also depends on whether your biltong is sliced or whole, and whether you prefer it wet, medium or dry.

How Should Sliced Biltong Be Stored?

Keep unopened sliced biltong sealed in its original packaging and follow the storage instructions and date printed on the label.

Once the packet has been opened, air and moisture enter every time you reach inside. Seal the packet properly after each use and consume the biltong within three days of opening.

Avoid leaving an opened packet in a warm room, direct sunlight or near steam from cooking. Always use clean, dry hands or utensils when removing biltong from the packet.

Why Can Biltong Develop Mould?

Mould is most likely to develop when moisture becomes trapped around the biltong.

This can happen when:

• An opened packet is not properly resealed.
• Wet air repeatedly enters the packet.
• The biltong is stored somewhere warm or humid.
• Damp hands or utensils are placed inside the packet.
• A whole piece is left inside an opened plastic bag without enough airflow.

Wetter biltong naturally contains more moisture than dry biltong, so it requires particularly careful storage once opened.

How Should Whole Biltong Be Stored?

After opening, a whole piece of biltong should not simply remain sealed inside its original plastic bag. The bag may trap moisture around the meat and prevent it from breathing.

Remove the whole piece from the opened packet and keep it in a cool, dry and well-ventilated place. A clean biltong box or breathable paper bag can help provide airflow while protecting it.

Check the biltong regularly. The outside may continue drying over time, particularly after it has been removed from its packaging.

Wet, Medium and Dry Biltong

Different moisture levels behave differently after opening.

Wet Biltong

Wet biltong has the highest moisture content and should be consumed quickly. Reseal sliced biltong carefully and follow the three-day guidance after opening.

Medium Biltong

Medium biltong contains less moisture but should still be protected from warm, humid conditions and handled with clean, dry hands.

Dry Biltong

Dry biltong generally keeps its texture for longer after opening because it contains less moisture. However, it can still be affected by humidity and improper handling.

Can You Keep Biltong in the Fridge?

Opened sliced biltong can be stored in the fridge when necessary, particularly during warm or humid weather. Keep it properly sealed and avoid allowing condensation to form inside the packet.

Moving biltong repeatedly between cold and warm environments can create moisture, so only take out the amount you intend to eat.

Can Biltong Be Frozen?

Biltong can be frozen if you need to keep it for longer. Divide it into smaller portions before freezing so you only defrost what you need.

Keep it well sealed to protect it from freezer moisture and odours. Defrost it on a clean cake-cooling rack so that there is air all around it and moisture can evaporate properly whilst defrosting. Do not repeatedly freeze and defrost the same biltong.

When Should Biltong Be Thrown Away?

Do not eat biltong if you notice visible mould, a slimy surface, an unpleasant sour smell or anything else that appears abnormal.

When in doubt, throw it away. Removing visible mould does not guarantee that the remainder is safe to eat.

Quick Biltong Storage Guide

• Keep unopened biltong sealed and follow the instructions on the label.
• Consume sliced biltong within three days of opening.
• Reseal the packet properly after every use.
• Use clean, dry hands or utensils.
• Keep biltong away from warmth, steam and humidity.
• Remove whole pieces from opened plastic packaging and allow them to breathe.
• Store wetter biltong more carefully because it contains more moisture.
• Throw the product away if you notice mould, slime or an unusual smell.

Freshly Prepared Biltong Delivered Across the UK

At This Is Biltong, our biltong is freshly prepared in the UK using premium British beef and traditional South African methods. Choose your preferred cut, fat level and moisture level—from wet to dry—and enjoy biltong prepared the way you like it.

Explore our Original Biltong, Chilli Biltong and Garlic & Herb Biltong ranges online.