Best Beef Jerky of 2026

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels
Last Updated: Jan 30, 2026

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Beef jerky is a delicious and convenient snack that has been enjoyed for centuries. Made from thin strips of beef that have been marinated and dried, this protein-packed snack is perfect for anyone looking for a quick and easy way to satisfy their hunger. Whether you're on the go or just need a quick pick-me-up, beef jerky is a great choice. With a variety of flavors and brands to choose from, there's something for everyone. So why not try some beef jerky today and experience the delicious taste and convenience for yourself?

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

365 Teriyaki Beef Jerky, 8 Oz Cover #TOP 1
365 Teriyaki Beef Jerky, 8 Oz
ftb score rating icon 9.8
CHOMPS Grass Fed Beef Jerky Meat Sticks Cover #TOP 2
CHOMPS Grass Fed Beef Jerky Meat Sticks
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Ranch House Sweet & Spicy Montana Beef Jerky Cover #TOP 3
Ranch House Sweet & Spicy Montana Beef Jerky
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Beef Jerky

#TOP 1

365 Teriyaki Beef Jerky, 8 Oz

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8 Ounce (Pack of 1)
365 Teriyaki Beef Jerky, 8 Oz Cover
365 by Whole Foods Market, Grass-Fed Beef Jerky, Teriyaki, 8 Ounce

Enjoy a healthier snack with 365 by Whole Foods Market Teriyaki Family Size Beef Jerky. This jerky is made with no hydrogenated fats, high fructose corn syrup, bleached or bromated flour, or synthetic nitrates or nitrites. It is a perfect option for health-conscious people who want to indulge in a tasty treat. This jerky comes in an 8-ounce package, providing ample quantity for sharing with family and friends.

What We Like
Free from unhealthy additives
Great for health-conscious people
Ample quantity for sharing

CHOMPS Grass Fed Beef Jerky Meat Sticks

CHOMPS Grass Fed Beef Jerky Meat Sticks Cover
Chomps Grass-Fed and Finished Original Beef Jerky Snack Sticks 10-Pack - Keto, Paleo, Whole30, 10g Lean Meat Protein, Gluten-Free, Zero Sugar Food, Non-GMO

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.

What We Like
Great taste
High quality ingredients
Convenient snack
Low carb and low calorie
Good protein content
#TOP 3

Ranch House Sweet & Spicy Montana Beef Jerky

Ranch House
Ranch House Sweet & Spicy Montana Beef Jerky Cover
Ranch House Beef Jerky Sweet & Spicy Pack of 3 - Whole-Muscle Montana Beef Jerky Strips, High Protein Snack

The Ranch House Sweet Spicy Jerky is made using real beef from Montana ranchers, ensuring you get authentic Western flavor and trusted quality. Because it’s whole-muscle jerky, you enjoy thick, natural strips instead of processed meat, giving you a satisfying texture every time. This jerky is packed with protein, making it a perfect snack to keep your energy up during busy days, outdoor trips, or long work hours. Plus, it comes in a resealable 3.3 oz bag, so you can easily keep it fresh whether you’re at your desk, on the road, or out hiking.

What We Like
Locally sourced Montana beef
Whole-muscle thick strips
High protein content
Resealable fresh-keeping bag
#TOP 4

Jack Link's Beef Jerky Variety

Jack Link's
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Jack Link's Beef Jerky Variety Cover
Jack Link's Beef Jerky Variety Pack - Original and Teriyaki - (9 Pack) 1.25 oz Bag - Ready to Eat Protein Snacks - 13g Protein per Serving - Made with 100% Real Beef

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.

What We Like
High protein content
Convenient for on-the-go
Fresh and flavorful
Individually packaged servings
Great for snacks or gifts
#TOP 5

Jack Link's Original Beef Sticks 20 Count

Jack Link's
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Multi-Color
Jack Link's Original Beef Sticks 20 Count Cover
Jack Link's Beef Sticks, Original - Protein Snack, Meat Stick with 6g of Protein, Meat Snack Sticks Made with 100% Beef, Keto Friendly, Individually Wrapped - 0.92 Oz. (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.

What We Like
Consistent quality and flavor
High protein content
Convenient and portable packaging
Softer texture than jerky
No refrigeration needed
#TOP 6

CHOMPS MINI Beef Jerky Meat Sticks

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coffee
CHOMPS MINI Beef Jerky Meat Sticks Cover
Chomps Snack Size Grass-Fed Original Beef Jerky Snack Sticks 0.5oz 24-Pack - Keto, Paleo, Whole30, 4g Lean Meat Protein, Gluten-Free, Zero Sugar Food, Non-GMO Chomplings

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.

What We Like
Convenient on-the-go snack
High protein, zero sugar
Great taste and texture
Ideal for kids and families
Quality, natural ingredients
#TOP 7

Jack Link's Original Beef Jerky 8oz

Jack Link's
10000008206
Sweet & Hot
8 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Jack Link's Original Beef Jerky 8oz Cover
Jack Link's Beef Jerky, Original, Half Pounder Large Jerky Bag - Flavorful Meat Snack, Ready to Eat Protein Snacks with 10g of Protein per Serving, Made with 100% Beef

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.

What We Like
Consistent, tender texture
Balanced, flavorful taste
High protein content
Convenient packaging
Easy to chew
#TOP 8

Slim Jim Original Snack Size Meat Sticks 46 Count

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Slim Jim Original Snack Size Meat Sticks 46 Count Cover
Slim Jim Smoked Meat Sticks, Original Flavor, 6g Protein Per Serving, Snack Size, Valentine's Day Gift For Him, 0.28 oz. (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.

What We Like
Convenient snack size
High protein content
Long shelf life
Bold, savory flavor
Freshness and easy packaging
#TOP 9

365 by Whole Foods Market, Original Family Size Beef Jerky

8 Ounce (Pack of 1)
365 by Whole Foods Market, Original Family Size Beef Jerky Cover
365 by Whole Foods Market, Original Family Size Beef Jerky, 8 Ounce

Introducing 365 by Whole Foods Market, Original Family Size Beef Jerky. This delicious jerky is packed with 11g of protein per serving, making it a great snack for a quick energy boost. The beef used in this jerky is raised without antibiotics or hormones, ensuring a healthier and more natural option for jerky lovers. With its premium ingredients and affordable price, 365 Beef Jerky provides a convenient and satisfying option for those who love to snack on the go. Plus, it's an Amazon brand, so you can trust the quality and taste. Grab a bag of 365 Beef Jerky and enjoy the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition!

What We Like
High protein content
Beef raised without antibiotics or hormones
Affordable price
#TOP 10

CHOMPS MINI Original Grass Fed Beef Jerky Sticks

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CHOMPS MINI Original Grass Fed Beef Jerky Sticks Cover
CHOMPS MINI Grass Fed Beef Jerky Meat Snack Sticks 0.5 Oz, Original Beef (Pack of 6)

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.

What We Like
Convenient mini size
Great taste
Simple, clean ingredients
Healthy snack option
Easy to carry and open
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why is beef jerky not good for you?

Downsides of beef jerky It's very high in sodium, with a 1-ounce (28-gram) serving providing roughly 22% of your daily sodium allowance, which is set at 2,300 mg per day ( 5 ). Excessive sodium intake may harm several aspects of your health, including heart health, blood pressure, and stroke risk ( 2 , 6 ).

2. Is beef jerky a healthy snack?

Bottom line. As a nutritionist, I would not call beef jerky a "health food." That's due to its high sodium content and categorization as a processed red meat. However, if beef jerky is on your personal list of can't-live-without foods, think of it as an occasional treat.

3. Is jerky raw meat?

Jerky is a fully cooked product. It is never raw. Of course, merely cooking meat does not preserve it. Jerky can last so long without spoiling because it contains so little moisture.

Editor's Notes

During our beef jerky research, we found 27 beef jerky products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 810,141 customer reviews through our big data system to write the beef jerky list. We found that most customers choose beef jerky with an average price of $18.70.

The beef jerky are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of beef jerky, including 365 by Whole Foods Market, Chomps, Ranch House, Jack Link's, Slim Jim. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Ashley Abels Avatar

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!