Biltong Histamine Information

Biltong, a well-loved South African snack, is essentially dried and cured meat, a process that can potentially increase histamine content. Affirming this, a study by Conway, Hugo & Cronje (2017) states that fermented foods, such as cured meats, can have high histamine levels. However, Biltong is not fermented, but dried and cured. While there isn't extensive research specifically on Biltong and its histamine content or influence, considering its preparation process which includes marinating in vinegar, a recognized histamine-containing food, there's the potential for increased histamine content. Keeping in mind that eating Biltong may trigger histamine release due to its vinegar component, a histamine liberator, it still can't conclude Biltong's overall histamine impact. Other ingredients in Biltong such as salt, pepper and coriander, have no identified impact on histamine levels. As for Biltong or any of its ingredients possessing the ability to lower histamine, there's no scientific evidence currently available. One should also be aware that personal histamine tolerance levels can cause varying reactions to Biltong's consumption. In conclusion, despite no explicit data on Biltong's histamine content, the presence of vinegar in its preparation suggests potential histamine increase and release. More comprehensive research into Biltong's exact impact on histamine levels is needed. Sources: Conway, J.F., Hugo, C.J. & Cronje, P.J.R. (2017). Biogenic amine levels in South African uncooked and in-house-fermented biltong. Elsevier.