Jerky is a preserved meat snack, and while it is meant to last a long time, its quality deteriorates if you don’t store it properly. Whether you’ve made your jerky at home or purchased it from a store, using the best storage practices is essential for maintaining flavour and freshness.
The best way to store jerky is in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag. These methods effectively protect the jerky from exposure to oxygen and moisture, which lead to flavour degradation and spoilage. Vacuum-sealing, in particular, is an excellent choice for long-term storage, as it removes all the oxygen from around the meat and retains its texture and flavour.
For short-term storage, the best method is to place your jerky in an airtight container and place it in the fridge. Keeping your jerky in the fridge will last longer by slowing the growth of food-spoiling bacteria. Also using an airtight container will keep out oxygen, preventing microorganisms from spoiling your jerky.
This article explores how to best store jerky, covering key aspects like refrigeration, shelf life, container choices, and the advantages of vacuum sealing. Let’s delve into it.
Should You Store Jerky in the Fridge?
One of the most common questions about jerky storage is whether it should be refrigerated.
Refrigerating your jerky can extend its shelf life, making it a wise choice if you intend to keep it for an extended period. The cool, stable environment of the fridge slows down the growth of microorganisms and helps preserve your jerky’s quality.
Refrigeration is particularly recommended if you’re storing jerky with higher moisture content or if your jerky doesn’t contain preservatives. Jerky with moisture can spoil if left at room temperature, so it’s best to play it safe and keep it in the fridge.
The best practice for storing jerky in the fridge is to keep it in a sealed container, either plastic or glass, making sure no air can get in. It’s also a good idea to take it out and shake the jerky around every day to prevent the jerky from sticking together.
How Long Will Jerky Last?
The shelf life of beef jerky can vary depending on several factors, these include moisture content, storage conditions and packaging. As a general rule, jerky will last at room temperature for a week or so before it starts to grow mould. If jerky is stored in the fridge correctly it can last several months and in the freezer for up to a year. Here are the factors affecting how long your jerky will last:
Moisture Content
The moisture content in jerky significantly affects its shelf life. Jerky with lower moisture content tends to last longer. Homemade jerky may have a shorter shelf life compared to commercially produced jerky, which often contains preservatives and has lower moisture levels.
Storage Conditions
Proper storage conditions are vital to maintain the jerky’s quality. Keeping it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, helps extend its shelf life. The best place for jerky is in the fridge, which is cold and temperature-stable.
Packaging
The type of packaging also impacts how long your jerky will last. Air-tight packaging, such as vacuum-sealed bags, helps preserve the jerky for a longer amount of time. If you use the wrong packaging, you risk mould growth and spoiled jerky.
Commercial vs. Homemade Jerky
Commercially produced jerky often contains preservatives to extend its shelf life, unlike homemade which usually uses only salt. Commercial jerky also tends to be much drier than homemade, which makes it last longer as there is less moisture. As a result, commercial jerky tends to last longer than homemade jerky.
Can You Freeze Jerky?
Freezing jerky is a fantastic option to extend its shelf life, especially if you’ve made a large batch or found some jerky on special (bought in bulk). Some people believe jerky is not the same once it’s been frozen, but as long it is stored properly, the texture and taste should not change.
How to Freeze Jerky
- Divide your jerky into serving-sized portions.
- Place each portion in an air-tight container or a vacuum-sealed bag (vacuum sealing is the best option when freezing).
- Label each container with the date to keep track of freshness.
- When you feel like having some jerky, take out a portion and leave it to thaw at room temperature.
Shelf Life in the Freezer
When properly prepared and stored in the freezer, beef jerky can remain in excellent condition for up to 12 months. After that, its quality may begin to deteriorate, although it will still be safe to eat.
What Is the Best Container to Store Jerky?
Choosing the right container for your jerky is crucial in preserving its taste and texture. Here are some recommended options:
Airtight Containers
Airtight containers, like glass jars or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids (Tupperware is a classic), can be excellent for storing jerky. They help keep moisture and air out, ensuring the jerky remains fresh and won’t grow mould quickly.
Resealable Bags
Ziplock bags or resealable plastic bags are convenient choices for storing jerky, especially if you plan to consume it within a few weeks. Ensure you press out as much air as possible when sealing the bag (this is a practical method if you don’t have a vacuum sealer).
Vacuum-Sealed Bags
Vacuum-sealer bags are the ultimate container for jerky storage. They completely remove air from around the jerky and seal it tight which greatly extends your jerky’s shelf life. Additionally, they’re perfect for long-term storage in the freezer, preventing freezer burn and preserving the jerky’s flavour and texture.
Should You Vacuum Seal Jerky?
Vacuum sealing is the most effective way to store beef jerky for long periods and is favoured for several reasons:
Air Removal
Vacuum sealing removes oxygen from the packaging, which is one of the primary factors contributing to food spoilage. Without oxygen, bacteria and other microorganisms cannot thrive, ensuring the jerky stays fresh.
Extended Shelf Life
As a result of oxygen removal from around the jerky, vacuum-sealing helps to significantly extend the jerky’s shelf life. Vacuum-sealed jerky can often take up to a year or more before texture and flavour are impacted.
Flavour Preservation
Vacuum sealing also helps maintain the jerky’s original flavour, texture, and aroma. This is because the jerky is tightly packed together allowing the flavours to marinate together and hold their original moisture. When you open a vacuum-sealed bag of jerky, it will taste as fresh as the day it was sealed.
Portion Control
Vacuum sealing allows you to divide your jerky into convenient, portion-sized packages (and hide it away in the freezer). This is especially handy to control your snacking and avoid overindulgence.
Protects Against Freezer Burn
For those who choose to freeze their jerky, vacuum-sealed bags provide an extra layer of protection against freezer burn, ensuring the jerky remains in perfect condition.
Proper storage is essential to keep your beef jerky fresh and delicious. Whether you choose to refrigerate, freeze, or vacuum seal, each method has different advantages for different purposes. The choice depends on your intended storage duration, and how quickly you plan to consume the jerky. By following the guidelines in this article, you can enjoy the rich, savoury flavour of beef jerky for an extended period without it going bad.