Homemade beef jerky is a tasty, protein-packed snack that’s fun to make But improper storage can lead to spoilage, ruining your jerky.
Learning how to properly store homemade beef jerky is key to preserving its flavor, texture and nutrients Follow this complete guide to get the most out of your homemade jerky.
Why Proper Storage Matters
Beef jerky’s low moisture content helps prevent bacterial growth. But it’s not completely shelf-stable. Exposure to air, light, fluctuating temperatures and pests can still cause spoilage.
Signs of spoiled jerky include:
- Mold growth
- Unpleasant odors
- Dry, pale color
- Soft or hard texture
- Off or rancid flavors
Proper storage keeps jerky safe and maximizes shelf life. Follow these tips and your jerky will stay fresh for weeks or months.
Short Term Storage (Up to 1 Month)
For short term storage, an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer works best.
Refrigerator
Storing jerky in the fridge preserves freshness for 2-4 weeks.
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Use an airtight container like a jar or plastic container. This prevents moisture loss.
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Ziplock bags also work, removing excess air before sealing. But they allow more airflow than solid containers.
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Label the container with the prep date so you know when to toss it.
Freezer
Freezing extends shelf life to 1-2 months.
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Use freezer-safe ziplock bags, removing excess air. Freezer bags are thicker than regular bags.
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Mason jars also work well for freezing. Leave 1⁄2 inch of headspace before sealing.
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Always thaw jerky in the fridge, not the counter. Sudden temperature changes cause condensation.
Fridge vs. Freezer
The freezer preserves jerky longer than the fridge. But repeatedly freezing and thawing can degrade texture and flavor over time.
For occasional snacking, the fridge is best. Use the freezer for long term storage.
Long Term Storage (Over 1 Month)
For long term storage, vacuum sealing and dry canning are best. These methods exclude oxygen and prevent moisture loss for several months.
Vacuum Sealing
Vacuum sealing with a FoodSaver or vacuum sealer bag removes air and seals out moisture. It keeps jerky fresh for 6-12 months stored at room temperature.
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Cut jerky into portion sizes so you don’t repeatedly open the bag.
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You can also vacuum seal mason jars using jar sealer attachments.
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Freeze vacuum sealed jerky for even longer shelf life.
Dry Canning
Dry canning involves heating mason jars in the oven to create a vacuum seal:
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Preheat oven to 350°F. Place mason jar lids on a baking sheet.
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Heat jars and lids for 10 minutes. Remove with mitts.
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Quickly fill jars with jerky and seal. The cooling process vacuum seals the jars.
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Store in a cool, dark pantry. Jerky keeps for 6-12 months.
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Refrigerate after opening. Dry canning doesn’t reseal.
Optimal Storage Conditions
In addition to proper packaging, optimal storage conditions prevent spoilage.
Low Temperature
Store jerky at temps below 40°F for maximum shelf life. The freezer maintains best quality.
Low Humidity
Dried foods last longest when humidity is less than 60%. Use silica gel packs to absorb moisture.
Darkness
Light degrades jerky over time. Store in an opaque, light-blocking container.
Air Circulation
Good air circulation prevents condensation. Don’t cram storage containers together.
Following proper jerky storage guidelines keeps your jerky tasting great for weeks, months or even over a year. With the right packaging and conditions, you can enjoy your homemade jerky for the long haul.
Freezer Plastic Bag
A plastic bag might be the most obvious, but it’s also the most effective choice when it comes to storing beef jerky.
Our research shows that over a 60 day period, a plastic bag was the most effective way to preserve the color, texture and flavor of homemade jerky.
Plastic bags are also lightweight and portable which make them a great option for outdoor activity.
You can use a pen to mark the date the homemade jerky was produced to make sure youre enjoying the jerky within the best time frame possible.
One drawback, however, is a plastic bag can be breached by ambitious pests. One solution to this problem is storing the plastic bag inside of a mason jar or plastic food containers.
Mason jars are an acceptable but not an ideal storage container for beef jerky.
Mason jars create an airtight seal and the lid makes opening and closing a breeze, but our study showed that the interior air within a closed jar slowly dried out the jerky quicker than a plastic bag with the air removed.
Mason jars are also much less portable than a plastic bag. Great for the pantry, but not ideal for the outdoors or road.
The glass of the mason jar does offer a sturdier barrier to potential pests than a plastic bag.
The mason jar does win points for aesthetic appeal.
Plastic Storage Containers (Tupperware)
Plastic storage containers offer many of the same advantages as mason jars. They are strong, durable, and can’t be breached by pests.
Tupperware and plastic storage containers create an airtight seal and the lid makes opening and closing a breeze, but our study showed that the interior air within a closed box slowly dried out the jerky quicker than a plastic bag with the air removed.
Plastic storage containers are also much less portable than a plastic bag. Great for the pantry, lunchboxes, but not ideal for the outdoors or road.
Master the Art of Storing Jerky for MAXIMUM Freshness
FAQ
How long will homemade beef jerky last?
By creating an almost airless environment, you significantly slow down the degradation process. A properly vacuum-sealed bag of homemade beef jerky can last up to 6 months in the pantry and up to a year in the refrigerator!Feb 21, 2024
What is the best way to keep beef jerky fresh?
When storing beef jerky for short-term use, it is best to keep it in an airtight container or resealable bag. For long-term storage, vacuum-sealing and freezing are ideal options. It is also important to pay attention to the expiration date and storage instructions on the packaging.Feb 9, 2023
Does homemade dehydrated beef jerky need to be refrigerated?
Jerky is a lightweight, dried meat product that is a handy food for backpackers, campers and outdoor sports enthusiasts. It requires no refrigeration.
How do you keep homemade jerky from molding?
Couple ways. You could take it to the fridge uncovered and let it cool completely and store it there(adding a paper towelto the bottom and top helps). Vacuum seal, but let it cool, or it can also be the method you use. Ovens seem to retain more moisture for me even when cracked, a smoker or dehydrator is a good option.