Best Jerky of 2026
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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
Slim Jim Original Snack Size Meat Sticks 46 Count
The Slim Jim Original Sticks come in a convenient 46-count box, perfect for stocking up on your favorite savory snack. Each stick offers a bold and satisfying flavor, making it an ideal choice when you need a quick, tasty bite. Made with a mix of spicy beef, pork, and chicken, these meat sticks provide a rich and hearty taste that can satisfy even the biggest appetites. Plus, with 6 grams of protein in every serving, you get a nutritious boost that helps keep hunger at bay while you're on the go. These individually wrapped sticks make snacking simple and mess-free wherever you are.
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.
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.
Jack Link's Original Beef Sticks 20 Count
Jack Link's Beef Sticks offer a convenient way to boost your protein intake with 6 grams of protein in each stick, making them perfect for keeping your energy up throughout the day. The pack includes 20 individually wrapped sticks, so you can easily carry them in your lunch, take them to work, or bring them on outdoor adventures. Made from 100% premium beef and a special blend of seasonings, these sticks provide a satisfying and flavorful snack for meat lovers. Enjoy the unique smoky taste from slow cooking over hardwood, which adds a delicious twist to your protein snack routine.
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 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.
Slim Jim Original Snack Size Meat Sticks 26 Count
The Slim Jim Original Sticks offer a convenient way to enjoy a bold and savory snack anytime. With 26 individually wrapped sticks in each box, you can easily carry them with you for on-the-go hunger relief. These snack-sized sticks are made from a mix of spicy beef, pork, and chicken, providing a rich and satisfying flavor for those who enjoy a hearty meat snack. Each serving delivers 6 grams of protein, helping you stay fueled and satisfied between meals. Whether you need a quick bite at work or a tasty treat during outdoor activities, these sticks make snacking simple and delicious.
CHOMPS MINI Original Grass Fed Beef Jerky Sticks
The CHOMPS Original Beef Sticks offer a tasty and healthy snack option with 4 grams of protein in each 0.5 oz stick, helping you stay energized throughout the day. With zero sugar and only 45 calories per stick, you can enjoy a guilt-free treat that fits well into your diet. These jerky sticks are perfect for on-the-go convenience, making them easy to carry and enjoy anytime. Plus, their slightly smoky and mildly spicy flavor adds a delicious twist that keeps snacking interesting and satisfying.
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.
Old Trapper Old-Fashioned Beef Jerky 8oz
The Old Trapper Beef Jerky is a smart choice when you want a healthier snack option. With 11 grams of protein and just 70 calories per serving, it helps keep you energized without the extra fat. Its tender, smoky, and slightly sweet flavor makes it a tasty treat you'll enjoy anytime. Made from 100% lean beef and natural wood smoke, this jerky offers quality you can trust. Plus, its convenient size and resealable bag let you keep it fresh and ready for snacking whether you're at work, the gym, or on the go.
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 867,500 customer reviews through our big data system to write the jerky list. We found that most customers choose jerky with an average price of $18.61.
The jerky are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of jerky, including Slim Jim, Chomps, Jack Link's, Old Trapper. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 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!
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| Brand | Slim Jim | Chomps | Jack Link's | Jack Link's | Chomps | Jack Link's | Slim Jim | Chomps | Jack Link's | Old Trapper |
| Units | 12.88 Ounce | 11.5 Ounce | 11.25 Ounce | 18.4 Ounce | 12.0 Ounce | 8.0 Ounce | 7.28 Ounce | 3.0 Ounce | 12.5 Ounce | 8.0 Ounce |
| Flavor | Original | Original Beef | Original & Teriyaki | Original Beef | Original Beef | Original | Original | Original Beef | Original | Old Fashioned |
| Item Form | Packaged | Stick | Strip | Stick | Stick | Strip | Stick,Meat Stick | Stick | Strip | Jerky |
| Biological Source | Chicken, Cow, Pig | Cow | Cow | Cow | Cow | Cow | Chicken, Cow, Pig | Cow | Cow | Cow |
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