How to Store Beef Jerky for Maximum Freshness

Beef jerky is a tasty, protein-packed snack that can last a long time when stored properly. Learning the best ways to store beef jerky will help you keep it fresh and flavorful for months.

Why Proper Storage is Important for Beef Jerky

Beef jerky owes its long shelf life to the curing and drying process which removes most of the moisture. This creates an environment where bacteria can’t grow easily. However, jerky can still go bad if stored incorrectly. Moisture and oxygen are the two biggest threats to beef jerky’s shelf life. Too much exposure to moisture from humidity or condensation can lead to mold growth. Oxygen can cause oxidation which makes jerky lose its flavor and texture.

Follow these tips to keep moisture and air out of your jerky supply. With the right storage methods, you can enjoy great tasting beef jerky for up to a year or longer.

Short Term Jerky Storage

For short term storage of up to 1 month, beef jerky can be kept sealed in a zip top bag or airtight container at room temperature. Try to squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. You can place the jerky packets in a paper bag to help absorb any excess moisture.

Check the jerky occasionally for any mold growth. Discard any pieces that look dried out or smell off. Reseal the jerky in a new airtight bag or container if needed

Refrigerating the sealed jerky bags can extend the shelf life for 3-6 months Freezing can keep jerky fresh for up to 1 year Let frozen jerky thaw in the refrigerator before eating for best texture,

Long Term Jerky Storage

For storage periods over 6 months, use vacuum sealing or canning methods to remove oxygen and prevent moisture gain.

Vacuum Sealing

A vacuum sealer machine removes air before heat sealing the jerky in an airtight pouch. Vacuum sealed jerky lasts for 1 year at room temperature. Refrigerating or freezing vacuum sealed jerky can extend its shelf life to 2 years or longer.

To vacuum seal jerky:

• Place jerky in a vacuum sealer pouch.
• Remove as much air as possible from the pouch.
• Seal the pouch using a vacuum sealer machine.
• Store sealed pouches in a cool, dry place.

Canning

Canning jerky in mason jars creates an airtight seal that keeps air and moisture out.

Follow these steps for canning jerky:

• Sterilize mason jars and lids by boiling for 10 minutes. Allow to air dry.
• Layer beef jerky strips loosely into the jars, leaving 1⁄2 inch of headspace.
• Seal the jars loosely and place in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to heat the air inside.
• Remove the hot jars and immediately tighten the lids fully.
• Allow to cool completely. The seals should pop as a vacuum forms.

Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Refrigeration can extend the shelf life.

How to Store Homemade Jerky

Homemade jerky generally lasts 1-2 months in an airtight container at room temperature. Proper drying is key for maximum shelf life. Use a food dehydrator or oven to dry jerky until it’s leathery but still pliable.

Cure homemade jerky with salt and sodium nitrite for longer lasting preservation. Store cured jerky as you would commercial jerky. Vacuum seal or can homemade jerky for storage up to 6 months.

Ensuring Jerky Safety

Always inspect beef jerky before eating. Check for mold growth, dried out or crumbly texture, and off odors which can indicate spoilage. Discard any questionable jerky.

Keep uncured homemade jerky refrigerated and use within 1 week for food safety. Commercially prepared and properly cured jerky can be stored safely at room temperature using the methods outlined.

Proper storage keeps your jerky shelf-stable, flavorful, and safe to enjoy. Follow these tips to maximize beef jerky’s freshness no matter how long you need to store it. With the right techniques, you can keep jerky on hand for convenient, tasty snacking anytime.