Best Jerky of 2025

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Jerky is a popular snack that has been enjoyed for centuries. Made from lean cuts of meat that are marinated and dried, jerky is a high-protein, low-fat snack that is perfect for on-the-go snacking. It comes in a variety of flavors and types, including beef, turkey, and even vegan options. Jerky is a great snack for outdoor activities, such as hiking or camping, as it is lightweight and easy to store. It is also a great option for those looking for a healthy snack that will keep them full between meals.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Jerky
Jack Link's Beef Jerky Variety
Introducing Jack Link's Jerky Variety, the perfect on-the-go snack packed with protein to keep you satisfied and energized all day. This variety pack includes 9 single serve bags of delicious beef jerky, with 5 bags of the classic Original flavor and 4 bags of the East meets West Teriyaki flavor. Made from lean cuts of 100% beef, Jack Link's Beef Jerky is 94% fat free and contains no added MSG. With its full-on flavor, slow cooking, and hardwood smoking process, every bite is a taste of meat perfection. Whether you're out and about or packing your family's lunch boxes, these convenient jerky bags are a great way to ensure you're getting enough protein each day. Experience the American tradition of hard work, fun, and quality products with Jack Link's.
CHOMPS Grass Fed Beef Jerky Meat Sticks
CHOMPS Grass Fed Beef Jerky Meat Snack Sticks are a clean snack that is rich in protein, low in sodium, low in fat, low in carbs, sugar-free, and only 90 calories per 1.15oz meat stick. They are Keto Friendly, Whole30 Approved, Paleo, Non-GMO, and Certified Gluten-Free. All natural and real ingredients make them dairy-free, soy-free, nut-free, gluten-free, and sugar-free. They are perfect as an on-the-go protein snack. The beef is 100% Grass Fed & Finished, Certified Humane, and nitrate nitrite free. The Original Beef flavor is slightly smoky and spicy.
Old Trapper Beef Jerky 10-Ounce
Old Trapper Beef Jerky is a smart choice for snacking. With 11 grams of protein and only 70 calories per serving, it offers a healthier alternative to chips and crackers. You’ll enjoy its tender texture, smoky flavor, and slight sweetness, making it a gourmet treat. Made from 100% lean beef and quality ingredients, this jerky prioritizes quality and taste. It’s also convenient to have on hand for any occasion—whether you stash it in your gym bag, office, or car, you’ll always have a satisfying snack ready to go. Plus, the resealable 10-ounce package ensures it stays fresh longer.
Jack Link’s Beef Jerky Bold Variety Pack
The Jack Link’s Beef Jerky Bold Variety Pack is perfect for on-the-go snacking with 15, 1.25 oz bags of 100% lean beef jerky in Sweet & Hot, Jalapeno, and Peppered flavors. Slow cooked and hardwood smoked to perfection, each bag is packed with full-on flavor and is a good source of protein. With 96% fat-free, no added MSG, and no assembly required, this is a great option for anyone looking for a delicious, healthy snack.
Jack Link's Original Beef Jerky 8oz
Jack Link's Beef Jerky is a tasty snack that provides a great source of protein. With each serving offering 10 grams of protein and only 80 calories, it helps keep you full throughout the day. Made from 100% lean beef, this jerky is 96% fat-free and contains no added MSG or preservatives, making it a healthier option. Its rich flavor comes from being hardwood smoked and slow cooked, ensuring a bold and savory taste. This jerky also comes in a resealable bag, so you can enjoy it fresh every time, whether you're at work, on a hike, or hitting the gym.
Jack Link's Original Beef Jerky Multipack
Jack Link's Original Beef Jerky Multipack is a protein-packed snack made from lean cuts of 100% premium beef with no added MSG or nitrates/nitrites. Each snack-sized .625 oz bag is packed with 7g of protein and has a mild smoky taste the entire family enjoys. It's lunchbox-ready, requiring no refrigeration, making it a great way to get protein in your kid's lunch or yours. With 20, single-serving bags, it's perfect for packing in lunches, bringing to work for powering through the mid-morning munchies and keeping in the pantry for an after-school snack.
CHOMPS MINI Beef Jerky Meat Sticks
CHOMPS MINI Grass Fed Beef Jerky Meat Snack Sticks are a delicious clean snack option. With 5g of protein, low sodium, low fat, low carb, sugar free, and only 30 calories per 0.5oz meat stick, it's a great on-the-go protein source. These jerky sticks are Keto Friendly, Whole30 Approved, Paleo, Non-GMO, and Certified Gluten Free. All natural, real ingredients are used that are dairy free, soy free, nut free, gluten free, and sugar free. The beef used in these sticks is 100% Grass Fed & Finished, Certified Humane, and nitrate nitrite free.
Jack Link's Beef Jerky Variety Pack - 15 Bags
The Jack Link's Beef Jerky Variety Pack is the perfect choice for on-the-go snacking, whether you're running errands or packing your family's lunchboxes. With 15 bags of 1.25 ounces each, including Original, Teriyaki, and Peppered flavors, you'll be getting plenty of protein to keep you energized and satisfied all day. Made from lean cuts of 100% premium beef and seasoned with simple spices, this beef jerky is 96% fat-free and contains no added MSG. Each bag is packed full of flavor, making it a delicious and convenient snack option.
Old Trapper Beef Jerky, Peppered 10oz Pack
Old Trapper Peppered Jerky is a smart snack choice, offering 11 grams of protein and only 70 calories per serving. The delicious blend of tender, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors makes it a gourmet treat you'll enjoy. Made from 100% lean beef and natural wood smoke, this jerky is a quality food option. Its convenient packaging allows you to easily stash it in your glove box, gym bag, or office for quick and satisfying snacking.
CHOMPS Beef Jerky Snack Sticks
CHOMPS Beef Jerky is a clean and diet-approved snack that is perfect for those on the go. Each 1.15oz meat stick is packed with 9g of protein, making it a great source of quality protein. With low sodium, low fat, and low carb content, it is a guilt-free snack that can be enjoyed by anyone. The jerky sticks are also Keto Friendly, Whole30 Approved, Paleo, Non-GMO, and Certified Gluten Free, making them suitable for various dietary needs. Additionally, CHOMPS Beef Jerky is made with all-natural, real ingredients that are free from dairy, soy, nuts, and sugar. The beef used in these sticks is 100% Grass Fed & Finished, Certified Humane, and nitrate nitrite free. With its convenient packaging and delicious taste, CHOMPS Beef Jerky is the perfect snack for those looking for a healthy and flavorful protein boost.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is it healthy to eat jerky?
Jerky can be a healthy snack option as it is high in protein, zinc, and iron. However, it is important to consume it in moderation due to potential health risks associated with processed and red meats.
2. Is jerky cooked meat?
Whether jerky is cooked or raw depends on the production process. Some jerky is heated to 160 degrees Fahrenheit before dehydrating the beef slices, while others are simply dried at low temperatures.
3. What is the best meat to make jerky with?
Top Round, Bottom Round, Lifter, and Pectoral are some of the best cuts of beef for making jerky. Other options include Flank Steak and Skirt Steak, which are economical, lean, and flavorful.
4. What makes meat jerky?
Jerky is made by using a low-temperature drying method and adding salt to inhibit bacterial growth. Modern jerky can be marinated, seasoned with spices, or smoked with low heat.
5. Is it OK to eat beef jerky everyday?
It is recommended to limit the intake of red and processed meats like beef jerky due to their association with increased risks of certain health issues. Consuming beef jerky every day may increase the risk of colon cancer.
6. Is jerky healthier than chips?
Compared to chips, beef jerky is generally a healthier option. It has less calories, fat, and carbs, while providing more protein. Making small changes like choosing jerky over chips can have a positive impact on a healthy lifestyle.
7. Can you eat raw beef jerky?
Beef jerky is 100% cooked and ready to eat. It does not require any additional cooking or preparation. However, raw poultry is generally not recommended for making jerky due to texture and flavor concerns.
8. Do you make jerky with raw or cooked meat?
Jerky can be made from lean meats like beef, pork, venison, or smoked turkey breast. Raw meats may carry disease-causing microorganisms, so it is important to use properly handled and cooked meat for jerky production.
9. What is the toughest meat for jerky?
The toughness of the meat is not the primary factor for making jerky. Cuts like flank and skirt steak, which are relatively lean, are better choices for jerky. The marbling of fat in beef brisket does not make it an ideal option.
10. Why does beef jerky not rot?
Beef jerky does not rot because it has very little moisture, which is essential for bacterial growth. The low water content in jerky, along with proper storage in a cool and dry place, allows it to last for months without refrigeration.
During our jerky research, we found 24 jerky products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 517,961 customer reviews through our big data system to write the jerky list. We found that most customers choose jerky with an average price of $18.31.
The jerky are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of jerky, including Jack Link's, Chomps, Old Trapper. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!
Jerky Comparison Table
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Brand | Jack Link's | Chomps | Old Trapper | Jack Link's | Jack Link's | Jack Link's | Chomps | Jack Link's | Old Trapper | Chomps |
Flavor | Original & Teriyaki | Original Beef - 10ct. | Old Fashioned | Jalapeno | Original | Original | Original Beef | Original, Peppered, Teriyaki | Peppered | Original Beef |
Item Form | Strip | Stick | Strip | Strip | Strip | Strip | Stick | Strip | Strip | Stick |
Biological Source | Cow | Cow | Cow | Cow | Cow | Cow | Cow | Cow | Cow | Cow |
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