10 Best Beef Jerky In The World, Tried and Tested

Source: Amazon

Our pick: Jack Link's Beef Jerky Variety Pack - Includes Original

Jack Link's Beef Jerky Bold Variety Pack is a convenient and protein-rich snack option that includes three flavors: Original, Teriyaki, and Peppered. As someone who has tried this product, here is my honest assessment of its strengths and weaknesses.

Pros

1. Good Variety of Flavors – The pack includes three distinct flavors, catering to different taste preferences. The Original is classic and slightly smoky, Teriyaki has a sweet-savory balance, and Peppered offers a bolder, spicier kick.
2. High Protein Content – Each serving provides a solid amount of protein, making it a great snack for those who need a quick energy boost, whether after a workout or during a busy day.
3. Convenient Packaging – The 1.25 oz individual packs are easy to carry, making them perfect for travel, work, or outdoor activities.
4. Made with 100% Beef – The quality of the meat is apparent in the taste and texture, and the jerky does not contain any artificial preservatives or fillers.
5. Good Shelf Life – The packaging keeps the jerky fresh for a long time, making it a reliable pantry staple.

Cons

1. Can Be Tough and Dry – Some pieces tend to be a bit harder and chewier than expected, especially in the Original and Peppered flavors. If you prefer softer jerky, this may not be the best choice.
2. Teriyaki Flavor is Very Sweet – While some may enjoy the sweetness, others might find the Teriyaki flavor overly sugary compared to traditional jerky.

Jack Link's Beef Jerky Bold Variety Pack is a great option for those who enjoy protein-packed, flavorful snacks with a mix of classic and bold tastes. While it offers convenience and quality, the toughness of some pieces and the high sodium content might not appeal to everyone. If you enjoy traditional beef jerky with a variety of flavors, this pack is a solid choice, though it may not be the best value for budget-conscious buyers.

Also great: Jack Link's Beef Jerky

Jack Link's Beef Jerky, Original, in the large 9 oz bags (Pack of 2), is a convenient and protein-rich snack option for those who enjoy traditional beef jerky. Here is an objective review of its pros and cons based on my experience.

Pros

1. Classic, Well-Balanced Flavor – The Original flavor has a smoky, slightly sweet, and savory taste that appeals to most beef jerky lovers. It is not too overpowering, making it a reliable choice for those who enjoy a traditional jerky experience.
2. High Protein Content – With 10g of protein per serving, this jerky is an excellent option for those looking to boost their protein intake, whether for fitness, a high-protein diet, or just a satisfying snack.
3. Made with 100% Beef – The quality of the meat is evident, and it contains no fillers, making it a solid choice for those following keto, paleo, or carnivore diets.
4. Large Bag for Better Value – The 9 oz bag offers a better cost-per-ounce compared to smaller snack-sized packs, making it a more economical option for frequent jerky eaters.
5. Long Shelf Life and Convenient Packaging – The resealable bag helps keep the jerky fresh, making it a great snack to have on hand for road trips, office breaks, or outdoor activities.

Cons

1. Can Be Tough and Chewy – While some enjoy the firm texture, others might find it too dry or hard to chew, especially if they prefer a softer jerky.
2. High Sodium Content – Like most beef jerky, this product is high in sodium, which may be a concern for those watching their salt intake.

Jack Link's Beef Jerky, Original, is a solid choice for those who enjoy classic beef jerky with a rich, smoky flavor. It provides a good amount of protein and is made with 100% beef, making it a great fit for high-protein diets. However, the tough texture and high sodium content may not be ideal for everyone. If you are looking for a convenient, flavorful, and long-lasting snack, this is a great option—though it may not be the most budget-friendly choice.

Also great: Hardtimes Handcrafted Beef Jerky

Hardtimes Handcrafted Beef Jerky is a unique take on traditional jerky, offering a classic, old-fashioned texture and flavor. Sold in an 8 oz. bag, this jerky is a favorite among those who appreciate a more natural, minimally processed snack. Here’s an objective review of its strengths and weaknesses.

Pros

1. Authentic, Old-School Flavor – The seasoning is simple yet flavorful, with a great balance of smoky, salty, and slightly sweet notes. It has a homemade, handcrafted taste that stands out from mass-produced brands.
2. Dry and Crisp Texture – Unlike most commercial jerky, Hardtimes jerky has a dry, brittle texture that snaps rather than chews. This makes it a great option for those who prefer a crunchier, chip-like jerky rather than a moist, chewy one.
3. Made with High-Quality Beef – The jerky is made with real, 100% beef and contains no unnecessary fillers or artificial preservatives.
4. Good Shelf Life – The packaging keeps the jerky fresh, and because it is drier than typical jerky, it has a longer shelf life even after opening.
5. Low in Fat – Due to its lean and dry nature, this jerky is lower in fat compared to some other brands, making it a decent option for those watching their fat intake.

Cons

1. Very Dry and Crunchy – While some people love the crisp texture, others may find it too tough or difficult to chew, especially if they are used to softer, more tender jerky.
2. High Sodium Content – As with most beef jerky, this product is quite salty, which may not be suitable for those watching their sodium intake.

Hardtimes Handcrafted Beef Jerky is an excellent choice for those who enjoy a dry, crisp, and authentic jerky experience. Its handcrafted taste and high-quality beef make it a standout, but the crunchy texture may not be for everyone. If you prefer old-school, snap-apart jerky rather than the softer, chewier kind, this could be your perfect match. However, if you like a more tender bite, you may want to look for a different brand.

Determining the best beef jerky in the world can be subjective, as it often depends on personal taste preferences and dietary requirements. However, several brands consistently receive high praise for their quality, flavor, and texture. Some top contenders include:

1. Jack Link's - Known for its extensive flavor options and wide availability, Jack Link's is a favorite among many jerky enthusiasts.

2. KRAVE - KRAVE offers gourmet beef jerky with unique flavors like Black Cherry Barbecue and Chili Lime, appealing to those looking for something different.

3. Epic Provisions - This brand focuses on high-quality, grass-fed beef jerky with a commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing, making it a favorite among health-conscious consumers.

4. Country Archer - Known for its all-natural ingredients and small-batch production, Country Archer delivers beef jerky that is both flavorful and healthy.

5. Biltong - While technically not beef jerky, biltong (a South African dried meat) from brands like Kalahari and Ayoba-Yo is often regarded as some of the best-dried meat products available due to its unique flavor and texture.

What is the Best Beef to Make Jerky?

The best beef for making jerky is typically lean cuts with minimal fat. Fat does not dry out properly and can cause the jerky to spoil more quickly. Some of the best cuts of beef for making jerky include:

1. Top Round - This cut is lean and affordable, making it a popular choice for jerky. It has a good balance of texture and flavor.

2. Bottom Round - Similar to top round, bottom round is lean and flavorful. It's a bit tougher, which some people prefer in jerky.

3. Eye of Round - This cut is very lean and easy to slice into uniform pieces, which helps in even drying.

4. Sirloin Tip - While slightly more expensive, sirloin tip is tender and flavorful, making it a premium choice for jerky.

5. Flank Steak - Known for its strong beef flavor, flank steak can make excellent jerky, though it tends to be more expensive.

Is Beef Jerky Healthier Than Chips?

Beef jerky can be healthier than chips, depending on the specific products and nutritional factors. Here are some comparisons:

1. Protein Content - Beef jerky is high in protein, making it a more satiating and muscle-supporting snack compared to chips, which are typically high in carbohydrates and fats.

2. Nutrient Density - Beef jerky generally provides more essential nutrients, such as iron and zinc, compared to chips.

3. Sodium Content - Both beef jerky and chips can be high in sodium, but jerky often contains more. It's important to check labels and opt for lower-sodium versions if possible.

4. Calories and Fat - Chips tend to be higher in calories and unhealthy fats due to frying, whereas jerky is usually lower in fat, especially if it's made from lean cuts.

Overall, while beef jerky can be a healthier snack option due to its high protein content and nutrient density, it should still be consumed in moderation due to its sodium levels.

Is it OK to Eat Jerky Everyday?

While beef jerky can be a convenient and tasty snack, it’s not advisable to eat it every day for several reasons:

1. High Sodium Content - Most beef jerky products contain high levels of sodium, which can contribute to hypertension and other cardiovascular issues if consumed in excess.

2. Preservatives and Additives - Some beef jerky contains preservatives, artificial flavors, and other additives that are not ideal for daily consumption.

3. Imbalanced Diet - Relying on beef jerky for regular snacking may lead to an imbalanced diet lacking in fresh fruits, vegetables, and other essential nutrients.

4. Caloric Intake - Beef jerky is calorie-dense. Consuming it regularly can lead to an excessive caloric intake, potentially causing weight gain if not balanced with physical activity.

What is the Disadvantage of Eating Beef Jerky?

Despite its popularity and convenience, beef jerky has some disadvantages:

1. High Sodium Content - The high sodium content in beef jerky can lead to increased blood pressure and other cardiovascular problems if consumed frequently.

2. Potential for Additives - Some beef jerky brands use preservatives, artificial flavors, and other additives that might not be healthy in large amounts.

3. Expense - Regularly buying beef jerky can be costly compared to other protein sources.

4. Digestive Issues - Some people might experience digestive discomfort from the high protein content and the presence of certain spices and additives in beef jerky.

5. Risk of Overconsumption - Because it’s a convenient and tasty snack, it’s easy to overconsume beef jerky, leading to an unbalanced diet and potential weight gain.

In conclusion, while beef jerky can be a delicious and convenient snack, it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet to avoid potential health issues.

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In the search for the best beef jerky in the world, quality, flavor, and texture make all the difference. Whether you prefer a smoky, spicy, or classic taste, top brands deliver rich, protein-packed snacks that satisfy every craving. No matter your choice, a great beef jerky should be tender, flavorful, and made with high-quality ingredients. Ready to find your favorite? Try one of the top picks and taste the difference!