Eating biltong during pregnancy is generally not recommended unless it is thoroughly cooked and heated until piping hot (over 70°C)[2][7]. Biltong is a type of dried, often undercooked or uncooked meat, and like other raw or minimally processed meats, it can harbor harmful bacteria and parasites such as Listeria, Salmonella, or the Toxoplasmosis parasite. These microorganisms are particularly risky for pregnant women, as infections can cause serious complications for both mother and baby[1][3][5].
Although biltong is rich in protein, which is important during pregnancy, the drying process does not reliably kill all harmful bacteria. For this reason, health authorities recommend avoiding biltong, jerky, and similar dried meats unless they have been cooked or heated until steaming hot[2][7]. Soft, moist, or fattier biltong poses an even greater risk as it can promote the growth of bacteria[1].
Some sources assert that if biltong is of high quality and reliably processed, it may be safer to consume, but most official guidelines urge caution and advise not to eat biltong during pregnancy unless it is heated thoroughly. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice[1][6].
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