Choosing the Right Packaging for Your Biltong

After experimenting with a few flavours and textures, you've finally curated a signature biltong profile for your brand. But perfectly dry-cured meat isn’t where the preservation journey ends. Although biltong naturally boasts an extended shelf life, the right biltong packaging can drastically enhance its freshness, flavour, and longevity. Plus, there's nothing quite like the experience of tearing open a packet to uncover that unmistakable aroma and rich, savoury taste of quality biltong.

This article explores the best biltong packing options available and how each one impacts flavour retention, biltong storage, and shelf life. We’ll also provide expert tips on how to preserve biltong so your product ends up in your customer’s basket – not the waste bin.

Why Biltong Packaging Matters

Yes, packaging is a wrapper, but it's also the frontline of preservation, whether you’re selling gourmet biltong in boutique stores or stocking up for online orders. Biltong is sensitive to moisture, oxygen, light, and even physical handling. Poor packing can result in mould growth, flavour loss, or a tough texture. Great biltong packaging, on the other hand, maintains peak freshness, promotes brand trust, and can even increase your product’s perceived value.

Additionally, the right packaging offers an excellent opportunity for promotional purposes. You can incorporate unique branding elements, fun facts, and compelling stories about the biltong’s origin or share cooking tips and recipes. This not only makes the biltong packaging more engaging for consumers but also helps build a connection with your brand. Let’s look at the most effective biltong storage solutions.

Vacuum-Sealed Packaging

Overview

Vacuum sealing biltong involves removing air from the packaging and sealing it in an airtight plastic pouch. It is one of the most popular methods used in commercial biltong production.

Pros

This packaging extends the shelf life of biltong by minimising oxygen exposure. It prevents mould growth and moisture retention and keeps flavours locked in. It is also great for long-distance shipping.

Cons

Vacuum sealing biltong may compress softer or wetter biltong pieces. Additionally, it’s not suitable for ongoing airflow (which some prefer for traditional-style biltong).

Best For

Retail biltong, online orders, or any scenario where long shelf life and food safety are top priorities. Visit Freddy Hirsch’s online store for premium vacuum sealing equipment like vacuum packing machines and vacuum bags.

Breathable Containers or Pouches

Overview

Breathable containers or pouches – usually made from kraft paper or plastic with micro-perforations – allow small amounts of air to flow in and out. This mimics the traditional way of storing biltong.

Pros

This form of packaging prevents excess moisture build-up. It is ideal for slightly moist or fatty biltong and supports traditional texture and flavour maturation.

Cons

Breathable packing has a shorter shelf life than vacuum-sealed bags and requires optimal storage conditions (cool, dry environment).

Best For

Artisan or deli-style biltong that is sold in smaller batches or refrigerated displays. Try Freddy Hirsch’s biltong bags to preserve the quality of your biltong products.

Traditional Paper Wrapping

Overview

Paper wrapping is commonly used in butcheries and local markets. Traditional paper wrapping (e.g., wax paper or butcher’s paper) gives biltong an old-school, handmade feel.

Pros

This type of covering allows the biltong to breathe. It is inexpensive, eco-friendly, and has aesthetic appeal for traditional or premium branding.

Cons

Paper provides the least protection against external elements. It has a short shelf life and is vulnerable to humidity and light.

Best For

Small biltong batches, in-person sales, or custom orders with quick turnover.

Packaging Considerations: What to Look For

Selecting the right biltong packaging is based on multiple factors, including moisture control. Biltong should stay dry but not withered; moisture absorbers (silica sachets) can help. UV protection is also essential because light exposure can degrade the biltong’s fats and proteins. This leads to stale flavours. Oxygen exposure is an additional element to consider. The less oxygen in the wrapping, the longer your biltong lasts. Top biltong packaging improves consumer experience since easy-open seals, resealable zippers, and clear labelling make your product more appealing and practical. Lastly, great wrapping has promotional elements. You can use the packaging as an opportunity to include fun facts, your story, or recipe ideas – this elevates the customer experience and helps build a loyal following.

Tips on How to Preserve Biltong

Regardless of packaging type, proper handling is key to long-term freshness:

1. Cool, dry storage: Store biltong away from direct sunlight or heat.
2. Use desiccant packs: Especially important in resealable or breathable packaging.
3. Avoid high humidity: Moisture invites spoilage and mould.
4. Label clearly: Include "best before" dates and storage instructions.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The right packaging can make or break your product’s quality and shelf life, whether you’re vacuum sealing biltong for export or wrapping it in kraft paper for a local market. Invest in biltong packaging that meets your brand values, product moisture levels, and customer preferences. Remember, learning how to store biltong is about preservation and a powerful tool for promotion, helping you tell your story and engage with consumers.

Need help with your biltong packing process? At Freddy Hirsch, we offer tailor-made solutions for every stage of the biltong journey – from spice blends and curing to packaging and equipment. Let us help you take your biltong from good to great; create an online account with us today to simplify your biltong packaging experience.