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Should you choose biltong or a protein bar when you need an energy boost?
Our snack choices are influenced by lots of different things – taste, convenience, cost, nutritional value, accessibility and of course, clever marketing – and it’s not always easy to make smart decisions.
That’s why we thought we’d do some homework on biltong vs protein bars to let the facts do the talking while you do the walking (or running, swimming, working, shopping, relaxing, entertaining and everything else!)
In this article, we compare a number of different aspects of biltong and protein bars including their:
Of course, every brand is different so this article is indicative rather than definitive. While we’re not going to tell you what product to choose, it’s really helpful to understand what you’re putting into your body and to make informed choices when it comes to snacking. Knowledge is power!
The nutritional value of protein bars depends on the manufacturer, but for the purposes of this comparison, we looked at two well-known products in Australia, Carman’s Dark Choc & Cranberry Protein Bar and the Musashi High Protein Bar and compared serving sizes of around 90 – 100g.
100g of the Musashi product contains 1570KJ (around 375 kilocalories), 50g protein, 3.5g carbohydrates, 4.5g saturated fat and 2.6g sugar per 100g. The average nutrients in a 100g serving of the Carman’s protein bar are 492kcal, 26.2g of protein, 26.7g of fat, 33.5g of carbohydrate and 130mg of sodium.
On the other hand, 100g of DJays Gourmet beef biltong contains around 1010 KJ of energy, 48.5g protein, 1.8g saturated fats and 845mg of sodium.
You can read more about the nutritional value of biltong here, but what is clear is that biltong delivers on the good stuff without overloading your body with things it doesn’t need like extra calories, excess sugar, fat and carbs. Remember, those highs and lows which we call ‘sugar crashes’ come from eating sugar or carb-laden foods, whereas the sustained energy release from protein is a much more effective and healthy solution.
Biltong is probably the purest protein boost you can get, and when it’s made from high-quality all-natural ingredients like our DJays products, you can trust that there aren’t any hidden nasties.
On that note, let’s look at some of the additives found in some brands of protein bars.
Biltong is a single protein source and is naturally low in sugar and carbs.
When you buy biltong from an established, reputable manufacturer, you can trust that it won’t contain any hidden nasties. Here at DJays Gourmet, we guarantee that our biltong is made from 100% premium Aussie beef with the finest all-natural ingredients such as vinegar and spices, so it’s pure protein-powered goodness. We don’t use preservatives and we use a natural, air-drying process to dehydrate our meat so that essential nutrients like iron, vitamin B and zinc are retained.
On the other hand, protein bars can be classified as processed foods and many of them contain unhealthy additives like sweeteners, preservatives, flavourings, fillers, palm oil and saturated fats.
For example, the Musashi bar contains emulsifier, flavours and sweetener (Sucralose), Emulsifier (Soy Lecithin) among its ingredients. Of course, there are some protein bars that are healthier than others, so it’s a good idea to check the labelling – especially if you have any allergies or food intolerances.
Biltong does have a higher sodium (salt) content than many protein bars as a result of the natural drying process – so we always say that everything needs to be enjoyed in moderation! Have a read of this article on the best high-protein snacks for more details.
Taste is personal and your snack choices may be influenced by your preferences, but consider this.
The growing popularity of biltong isn’t only being driven by its health benefits. Yes, it’s a great source of lean protein and essential amino acids to power the body (and mind) with steady energy – but it’s also the satisfying savoury deliciousness of this traditional South African snack that is attracting legions of fans around the world. (Discover more about the global biltong renaissance here).
On the other hand, some protein bars can taste like a sweet candy bar without any substance. People often say they just gobble it down without any real enjoyment, hoping that it will do the trick in terms of a quick energy boost.
Compare that to a mouthful of moist, chewy biltong or a chunky snapstick. Packed with umami punch and with a variety of different flavours and textures to choose from, this healthy snack passes the taste test with flying colours and is very more-ish. Can you say the same for your favourite protein bar?
Both biltong and protein bars deliver big on convenience. They don’t need to be kept in the fridge, they’re versatile, travel-friendly and won’t melt or crumble, plus they’re mess-free and easy to eat (even with one hand!)
On balance, it’s probably a tie between these two.
Biltong delivers on its promise of being a healthy, protein-rich snack which doesn’t play havoc with your blood sugar and energy levels. It’s made from nourishing ingredients and is preserved using natural processes which ensure that all the essential vitamins and minerals remain intact.
On the other hand, many protein bars can be processed and can have a higher carb, sugar and fat content. They may also contain a number of artificial additives which can do more harm than good.
Both are convenient, ready-to-eat, portable snacks that are obviously better for you than junk food, but the concentrated lean protein of biltong and its nutritional composition mean it delivers not only a fast energy boost, but a sustained one that will power you up for longer. You won’t get a sugar crash and you also won’t be taking in unwanted hidden calories either. With biltong, you know what you’re getting – whereas with a protein bar, you need to read the fine print to make sure you’re making a good choice.
Enjoyed anytime, anywhere and by anyone – from group gatherings to solo moments – biltong fits right in. But a protein bar? Not so much.
If you’re looking for a tasty, wholesome and healthy snack option that’s good for the whole family, put biltong on the menu. Better still, make that DJays Gourmet’s beef biltong.
Our quick and easy online ordering process will bring Australia’s best beef biltong right to your door in double quick time – wherever you are. And if you’re in Perth, you don’t have to wait for the courier – simply pop into our factory in Malaga and pick-up your order in person. Contact us on 08 9248 8277, order online or drop us an email via the website.
Arron Zamel has been General Manager of DJays Gourmet since 2015 and under his expert leadership, the company has cemented its reputation as Australia’s leading supplier of packaged jerky and biltong.
His strong family connection to South Africa, his marketing and management degree from Monash University, his technical expertise plus his experience as a successful entrepreneur and import/export business owner made him the ideal candidate for the challenging position.
Additionally, Arron’s innovative approach to management, his proven brand-building credentials, his strong customer focus and youthful energy have ensured that DJays Gourmet’s high-quality biltong and jerky have become Australia's dried meat treats of choice.
He understands traditional South African flavours and the precision techniques required to create truly authentic biltong, jerky and droewors (dried sausage). Part of his job is overseeing operations at DJays' purpose-built facility in Perth, WA where tons of Australian beef goes into making premium dried meat products each month for distribution to retail and wholesale customers across Australia.
For more insights into Arron’s world, visit the DJays Gourmet website, check out their Facebook page or follow them on Instagram @djaysgourmet.
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