South African Droëwors
Quick answer
A medium portion of South African Droëwors (40 g) contains 172 kcal, with 0.6 g of net carbohydrates and 14 g of protein.
- Carbs0.8 g1.8%
- Protein14 g32.1%
- Fat12.8 g66.1%
- Fibre0.2 g
Percentages of total energy (calories)
"Droëwors" literally means "dry sausage" in Afrikaans. It is made from minced beef seasoned with coriander, cloves, nutmeg, black pepper and vinegar, then air-dried until it is as crunchy as a salty cracker. It differs from biltong in having more fat (about 32 g per 100 g), which suits keto and low-carb eaters but means more calories. It has very little carbohydrate, so the glycemic index does not apply. One stick with a few olives makes a filling snack that helps you skip fried crisps.
💡 Smart Nutritional Guidance
Consumption advice
Two sticks (40 g, about 172 kcal and 14 g protein).
Best preparation methods
Have one stick with a few olives or cucumber and carrot sticks instead of crisps, and store it in a glass jar or paper bag in a cool, dry place.
Important Nutritional Note
Ingredient note: it is usually made from beef and beef fat, but some recipes add pork fat or lamb for a softer texture, so read the ingredient list if you prefer beef only. It is high in salt and saturated fat, and it is dried, uncooked meat, so pregnant women are advised to avoid it.
Nutrition facts
| Nutrient | Per 100 g | Per typical portion (40 g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 430 kcal | 172 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g | 14 g |
| Carbohydrate | 2 g | 0.8 g |
| Available carbohydrate | 1.5 g | 0.6 g |
| Fat | 32 g | 12.8 g |
| Dietary fibre | 0.5 g | 0.2 g |
The typical portion is approximate, for comparison purposes.
Comparison & smarter alternatives
It provides 8.1 g of protein per 100 kcal, ranking 60 of 70 in Meat, fish & eggs (highest first).
Related foods from the same family:
Frequently asked questions
Is South African Droëwors good for weight loss?
South African Droëwors provides 430 kcal per 100 g, so it is high in calories and fits a weight-loss plan only in small, measured amounts; a 40 g portion gives 172 kcal.
How does South African Droëwors affect blood sugar?
South African Droëwors contains only 1.5 g of available carbohydrate per 100 g, so the glycemic index does not apply and its direct effect on blood sugar is minimal. The meal’s effect depends on what you eat with it, such as bread, rice or sweetened sauces.
What is the nutritional value of a typical portion of South African Droëwors?
A typical 40 g portion of South African Droëwors provides about 172 kcal, 14 g protein, 0.8 g carbohydrate, 12.8 g fat and 0.2 g fibre.
Does droëwors raise blood sugar?
Practically not: it has very little carbohydrate and the glycemic index does not apply. It is rich in fat and salt, though, so stick to the portion.
Does droëwors fit an ordinary calorie deficit?
Yes, if you count carefully, because it has more fat and calories than biltong: one stick (20 g) has about 86 kcal.
How do you store it, and how long does it keep?
Keep it in a cool, dry place in a glass jar or paper bag; because it is so dry it keeps for several weeks. Throw it away if you see moisture or mould or notice an odd smell, and follow the date on the pack.
Read also
References & Scientific Sources
- The glycemic index does not apply because this food has less than 5 g of available carbohydrate per 100 g, and a GI test requires 25 to 50 g of available carbohydrate, per: ISO 26642:2010. Food products — Determination of the glycaemic index (GI) and recommendation for food classification. International Organization for Standardization; 2010. www.iso.org/standard/43633.html
- Definition of available carbohydrate and glycemic load: FAO/WHO. Carbohydrates in human nutrition: report of a joint FAO/WHO expert consultation. FAO Food and Nutrition Paper 66. Rome; 1998. www.fao.org/4/w8079e/w8079e00.htm
Reviewed by Dr. Wassim Habib · Last reviewed 21 October 2026
Disclaimer: This guidance is for nutritional lifestyle orientation and does not constitute a diagnostic medical device under EU Regulation MDR 2017/745.