9 Beef Jerky Benefits to Stay Healthy and Energized
Beef jerky is a popular, portable, and protein-packed snack that can be stored for long periods, offering a variety of flavors and nutritional benefits like minerals and vitamins.
Beef jerky is a lightweight, dried meat product commonly carried by campers, backpackers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Jerky does not require refrigeration, making it ideal for any outdoor activity with limited access to refrigeration. Meats used to make jerky include beef, pork, venison, and turkey, (and many more) but beef is the most commonly used meat.
It is safe to store beef jerky at room temperature for up to two weeks when properly dried and treated. Or beef jerky can be stored in the refrigerator for up to six months. It is best to keep beef jerky in a cool, dry location. Continue reading to discover the many reasons why beef jerky is so good:
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1. It’s simply delicious
No matter what anyone says, beef jerky is simply delicious. Various seasonings can help create unique flavor profiles of beef jerky, which is why so many people love the taste of the jerky and enjoy bringing it with them wherever they go. In addition, the use of wood to create an authentic smoked taste and other flavoring adds to the savory and tenderness of this easily portable snack.
2. Good source of protein
Beef jerky is considered a great source of protein and contains many vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, folate, phosphorus, iron, and zinc. Plus, the extended shelf life makes beef jerky a good source of protein when other sources are not readily available.
The protein-packed into a 3.5-ounce piece of beef jerky averages 1.17 ounces, enough to give you that additional energy boost. Most people need between 2.6 and 3.95 ounces of protein daily.
3. Good source of minerals
Beef jerky is a great source of minerals like zinc, phosphorus, and iron. Plus, you can make it gluten-free if needed. It’s a tasty and versatile snack option
4. It’s Portable
Beef jerky is lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry wherever you go.
5. Long shelf life
Beef jerky has a longer shelf life making it a great on-the-go option that does not require refrigeration. Many hikers, campers, and outdoor adventurers carry beef jerky to keep their bodies fueled with protein, minerals, and vitamins packed in beef jerky.
Since beef jerky removes any moisture within the meat, it is less likely to experience bacteria growth, contributing to its longevity. Well-prepared and packed jerky can last up to two years and, when opened, can last for about one or two weeks. Additionally, storing beef jerky in a freezer will not spoil the test. It may be expensive, but it’s a great value for its shelf life.
6. Tasty vegan options are available
Jerky is a versatile food and snack option that is not solely made with meat products. Although, of course, beef jerky can be made with beef, chicken, turkey, and other meat products, vegan options can also help provide vegetarians with a prime source of protein.
7. It helps boost your immune system
Jerky has many health benefits, which can help boost your immune system and help prevent you from getting sick. In addition, the amount of zinc and iron in jerky helps produce red blood cells, helping keep the body’s metabolism up. Generally, beef jerky can help prevent you from feeling exhausted and helps heal your body, especially after a strenuous workout.
8. Do not affect sugar levels
Consuming beef jerky reduces the number of preservatives we put in our bodies, which does not add high levels of sugar to the blood.
9. Contains less fat content
When prepared, most of the fat is trimmed from the meat before removing the moisture. During the dehydration process, the remaining moist pieces of fat are almost entirely removed. Ultimately, jerky contains less fat content than other meat products.
What are some nutritional facts about beef jerky?
Below are some nutritional facts for one ounce of beef jerky:
- Calories: 116
- Protein: 9.4 grams
- Fat: 7.3 grams
- Carbohydrates: 3.1 grams
- Fiber: 0.5 grams
- Zinc: 21%
- Choline: 6%
- Niacin: 3%
- Vitamin B12: 12%
- Phosphorus: 9%
- Folate: 9%
- Thiamine: 4%
- Selenium: 5%
- Iron: 8%
- Magnesium: 3%
- Potassium: 4%
- Copper 7%
- Riboflavin: 3%
- Small amounts of manganese, molybdenum, and pantothenic acid
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is beef jerky so tasty?
Beef jerky is tasty primarily because of the salt added to the meat during dehydration. The smoking process involved in making beef jerky also adds to the mouthwatering flavor this snack is known for. Additionally, it is possible to marinate the meat in various spices, oils, and juices, to help give the meat an enhanced flavor.
Is beef jerky healthy?
Beef jerky has many healthy attributes and can even be used to help with weight loss. In moderation, beef jerky can provide the body with protein, vitamins, and minerals in a low-calorie meat snack. When used as a snack, beef jerky can also help hold off cravings, which can help reduce appetite and help with weight loss.
Is jerky healthier than meat?
When eaten in moderation, Jerky is a healthy snack that is a great option when fresh meat is unavailable or easily stored. However, the high salt content in beef jerky can be less nutritional for people with high blood pressure or who need to reduce their salt intake.
Can I eat beef jerky every day to survive?
Beef jerky offers a stable food source that can be stored for extended periods. It is possible to survive by eating beef jerky daily; however, overeating can have some significant side effects. Side effects related to overeating beef jerky include an increased risk of heart disease and rapid weight gain.
Can I lose weight eating beef jerky?
Those looking to lose weight want to consume food with high protein values, and beef jerky is one of those high-protein foods. Like other foods, beef jerky can help you lose weight when eaten in moderation. However, jerky is high in sodium content and may cause bloating or water weight.
Is beef jerky considered junk food?
Some people associate beef jerky with junk food mainly because it is an easy-to-grab snack and is often on display as a grab-and-go snack at gas stations. However, beef jerky is far from being considered harmful junk food with high amounts of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
