Jerky

Since the beginning of time, people have preserved meat to prevent the spoilage of protein sources. Meat is specifically dried and cured in a salt solution to create jerky. During processing, preservatives, flavorings, and other additions may be applied. There are numerous varieties of jerky, including beef, fish, chicken, and buffalo. Even plant-based jerky substitutes derived from jackfruit, coconut, and banana exist. However, it should be noted that these substitutes do not offer the same level of nourishment as jerkies made from meat.

Commercial jerky can be safely kept in the pantry for up to 1 year, though the USDA recommends that homemade jerky be stored at room temperature for a maximum of 2 months. Any kind of jerky can be enjoyed in moderation, but the healthiest options are those that don’t contain added sugar, artificial flavors, or preservatives.