What is the shelf life of your beef jerky subscription?
What is the shelf life of your beef jerky subscription?
erky is a snack that is high in protein and a great way to replenish electrolytes after a workout. It is also a staple for many Paleo, CrossFit and Keto diets.
Store-bought jerky often has a best by date rather than an expiration date and is safe to eat long after that.
How long will my jerky last?
Jerky is a long-lasting snack because it is dehydrated to remove most of the moisture that could cause spoilage. The meat is then cured, with common cures being sodium nitrate, prague powder, or celery powder. Those chemicals prevent bacteria from growing on the meat and spoiling it. Jerky can last for months or even years at room temperature if it is sealed and unopened.
Refrigeration and freezing can extend the jerky’s lifespan even more. Refrigerating jerky can make it last for up to two weeks, and freezing can extend its shelf life up to six months.
It is important to understand that a best by date indicates when the quality of the jerky might start to decline, rather than when it becomes unsafe to eat. Proper storage and refrigeration techniques can extend the shelf life of beef jerky well beyond its recommended best by date. The key is to keep it sealed and stored in a cool, dark place away from moisture and sunlight, and use desiccants if possible to absorb excess moisture.
How do I know if my jerky is good to eat?
Jerky has a longer shelf life than most other high-protein snacks because of its low moisture content and unique preservation process. Store-bought jerky comes with a “best-by” date, but it will last for months or even years past this date if properly stored and sealed in its original packaging.
If you are concerned about your jerky expiring or have found some that has gone bad, there are a few ways to tell if it is safe to eat. First, check the appearance. Fresh jerky should be dry and firm, not soft or mushy. It should also have a clean, savory smell. If your jerky has a rancid or off-taste, discard it immediately.
A beef jerky subscription makes the perfect gift for anyone who loves to snack or enjoys trying new flavors and varieties. You can select a monthly or annual subscription when you order, and you can add your own personalized gift note. Order now and start your jerky adventure!
How do I know if my jerky is expired?
Jerky is a non-perishable food and will last a long time when properly sealed. However, it can go bad if left open for too long. If you notice the jerky has a rancid smell, it is probably past its prime.
Aside from a strong odor, other signs that jerky is bad include a wet texture or mold. It may also be a different color or feel hard and dry, which can indicate improper storage or age.
If you are still unsure, check the packaging for a “best by” date. This indicates the expected time of expiration for commercial jerky, and it should provide a good indicator of when homemade jerky will begin to spoil.
How do I know if my jerky is bad?
Aside from the obvious signs of mold or a rancid smell, jerky can also go bad if it becomes too dry, hard, or has a strange texture. It can still be eaten if it is like this, but the texture will be unpleasant and it will lose its flavor and nutrients.
When storing jerky, it is best to keep it in a dark place where the light will not be able to affect it. Storing jerky in the fridge is not necessary, but it can extend its shelf life slightly as the cooler temperature slows down the degradation process. You can further increase the longevity of your jerky by vacuum sealing it.
A jerky subscription is the perfect gift for anyone on your list. It is a fun and unique way to surprise and delight them again and again with new flavors. You can even customize your gift card with a personal message for the ultimate touch.