Homemade beef jerky is a tasty and protein-packed snack that can last for months in the freezer. With proper storage freezing extends the shelf life of jerky significantly compared to storing it at room temperature. But exactly how long does homemade beef jerky stay fresh and safe to eat when frozen?
Overview of Freezing Beef Jerky
Freezing is an excellent way to preserve homemade beef jerky and keep it from spoiling. The extremely low temperatures stop bacteria growth that causes foodborne illnesses. Frozen at 0°F, jerky can last up to 12 months before quality begins to deteriorate.
To maximize freshness, homemade jerky should be frozen as soon as possible after drying. Allowing it to cool completely before freezing prevents moisture condensation which can lead to freezer burn. The jerky must be sealed airtight, with all air pressed out of the packaging. Vacuum sealing or freezer bags work well.
Properly frozen beef jerky remains safe to eat indefinitely. However, flavor and texture will slowly degrade over time. For best quality, use frozen homemade jerky within 9 months.
Thawing should be done gradually in the refrigerator, not at room temperature or in the microwave. Refreezing thawed jerky is not recommended as it causes more deterioration.
How Long Does Homemade Beef Jerky Stay Good in the Freezer?
When stored continuously at 0°F, homemade beef jerky can last up to 1 year before losing significant quality. However, for optimal freshness and flavor, it should be consumed within 9 months.
Here are general guidelines for maximum recommended freezer times for homemade beef jerky:
- 2-3 months – Best quality. Still fresh.
- 4-6 months – Very good quality. Minimal changes in texture.
- 7-9 months – Good quality. Some drying and chewiness.
- 10-12 months – Edible but noticeable decline in flavor and texture. Discoloration possible.
Of course, these times are just estimates and can vary based on factors like recipe, preparation method, and storage conditions. The jerky remains safe to eat beyond 12 months but will become stale.
For long term freezer storage, the quality can be extended by vacuum sealing, using moisture-absorbing packets, freezing in single servings, and keeping the temperature consistently at 0°F.
Signs Homemade Beef Jerky Has Gone Bad in the Freezer
Although freezing preserves jerky, signs of spoilage can still occur over time. Check your frozen homemade beef jerky for these indications it may have gone bad:
- Unpleasant odors – Smell should be smoky or spiced, not sour or rotten.
- Mold growth – Appears fuzzy or slimy with white, green, or black spots.
- Unusual textures – Very dry and brittle or overly soft and sticky.
- Discoloration – Grayish tinges or unnatural colors.
- Condensation inside packaging – Indicates freezer burn.
- Ice crystals or freezer burn on jerky – Appears dried out or with white patches.
Beef jerky with any of these defects should be discarded. Do not taste jerky with obvious spoilage. When in doubt, remember – “If it looks bad, chuck it out!”
Tips for Freezing Homemade Beef Jerky
Follow these tips to safely freeze your homemade beef jerky for maximum freshness:
- Allow jerky to cool completely before freezing.
- Package in airtight containers like freezer bags or vacuum seal bags.
- Remove as much air as possible prior to sealing.
- Use moisture-absorbing packets (optional).
- Portion into single servings for easy thawing.
- Label packages with contents and freeze date.
- Freeze immediately after packaging.
- Maintain freezer temperature at 0°F.
- Don’t overload freezer to allow cold air circulation.
- Inspect periodically for ice crystals or freezer burn.
Thawing and Handling Frozen Homemade Beef Jerky
Always thaw frozen homemade beef jerky properly to prevent foodborne illnesses:
- Thaw in the refrigerator, not at room temperature or in the microwave.
- Allow 12-24 hours to thaw completely in the fridge.
- Use within 5 days for best quality.
- Do not refreeze thawed jerky.
- Discard any jerky with an off smell or appearance after thawing.
For quick thawing of a few pieces, frozen jerky can be placed in a sealed bag and put in a bowl of cold water for 30-60 minutes. Change the water every 15-20 minutes so it stays cold. Once thawed, eat immediately.
With proper freezing and handling, homemade beef jerky can retain its delicious flavor and texture for many months. Follow these guidelines on freezing times, storage, thawing, and signs of spoilage. Making jerky in bulk and freezing portions allows you to always have a tasty high-protein snack on hand!
How Can You Tell if Beef Jerky has Gone Bad?
The easiest way to figure out if jerky has gone bad is to use your senses. First, look for signs of spoilage like mold, fuzz, or areas that are green. If you see any of these signs, throw out the jerky. When meat spoils, you cant just remove the bad part and eat the rest.
The next thing youll do is smell the jerky. If it smells sour or rancid like rotten meat, throw it out. Smell is one of the first things that indicates when a meat product has spoiled.
Once youve smelled rotten meat, youll never forget the smell and there isnt enough cracked black pepper in the world to hide that stench.
Finally, feel the jerky. If it feels wet or sticky, throw it out. Jerky should be hard and dry. Wet spots can indicate that bacteria and mold are growing on the meat. Dont take chances with wet, sticky jerky.
How Long Does Homemade Dehydrated Beef Jerky Last?
Homemade jerky can last anywhere from one week to several years depending on a few factors like how it is made, what it is made from, and how it is stored.
Homemade jerky can have a wide variation of shelf-life depending on how it was made. You should always plan ahead and design your marinade so that it incorporates a curing agent, either sodium nitrite or celery juice powder that will provide protection from bacteria and mold that can make you sick.
A curing agent can also enhance the flavor and texture of your jerky, so dont skip it.
A second consideration is the type of meat you use to make homemade jerky. Youll want to make jerky with lean meat to enhance the storage time. Fattier cuts of meat like tenderloin and brisket will spoil much more quickly than lean cuts like top round.
Selecting the right kind of meat will improve the long-term safety of your meat.
Jerky for Survival Preps: Shelf Life, Storage and Uses.
FAQ
How long can you freeze homemade jerky?
Jerky can be stored for 1 to 2 months at room temperature and in the freezer for up to 6 months. North Dakota State University. Jerky Making: then and now. New tips for safely preparing jerky at home.
How to tell if jerky has gone bad?
Beef jerky should taste meaty and smoky, and any sour or unpleasant taste is a sign it is spoiled.Nov 9, 2024
What is the longest shelf life of beef jerky?
Vacuum sealing your beef jerky can extend its lifespan significantly. Store-bought jerky can last beyond a year, and homemade jerky can enjoy a shelf life of up to 6 months. Vacuum sealing is a powerful method to maintain freshness, taste, and nutritional value by preventing air and moisture from spoiling the jerky.
Can I eat 2 week old beef jerky?
How long does beef jerky last after being opened? We recommend that you eat the jerky within a week of opening the package.Sep 21, 2022