Beef jerky: American dried meat, a protein-rich snack for hikers and athletes

What is beef jerky?

Jerky is dried meat, usually beef. Lean meat with the visible fat removed is cut into thin slices, marinated with seasonings such as salt, spices, soy sauce, pepper and sugar, then dehydrated. Losing most of its water gives it its characteristic firm, fibrous texture and a long shelf life.

Its name comes from the Spanish ‘charqui’, itself derived from the Quechua word ‘ch’arki’, which referred to the dried meat of Andean peoples. Popularised in the United States as a snack for long journeys, jerky is now also made from pork, poultry and game.

Why take jerky hiking?

• Lightweight and compact: drying concentrates the meat’s nutrients into a small, light portion. A packet slips into a hipbelt pocket.
• High in protein: it complements sweet snacks such as bars and dried fruit, helping you eat a more balanced diet over several days.
• No refrigeration needed: unopened, it can withstand the warmth inside a rucksack, unlike most fresh foods.
• Ready to eat: no cooking, water or washing-up. Ideal for a quick break or a cold meal.
• A savoury change: after hours of exertion and sweet snacks, a salty, smoky flavour can be a welcome boost.

Beef jerky, biltong and dried meat: what’s the difference?

Jerky is cut into thin slices, marinated and dried, often with a heating stage. South African biltong is cut into thicker pieces, seasoned with vinegar and spices, then air-dried, giving it a more tender texture. European dried meats are also available and are closer to cured meats. Explore our selection of seasoned dried meat for a change, or read our article for a closer look at the differences between jerky and biltong.

How do you choose the right beef jerky?

• Flavour: original for purists, or peppered, sweet and spicy, or Asian-inspired for a change.
• Pack size: small packets are ideal for a single break, so you needn’t open a large pack at the start of a hike. Larger packs offer better value when camping with a group.
• Ingredients and nutrition: compare protein, salt and sugar content, as well as ingredient lists. Product pages show the calorie content and price per 100 kcal.
• Where the meat comes from: use the ‘Country of origin’ filter to make an informed choice.

How should you store beef jerky?

Unopened jerky keeps at room temperature until the date shown on the packet. Store it away from excessive heat and moisture. Some packets contain an oxygen absorber: it is not edible, so remove it when you open the packet. Once opened, eat the jerky promptly, following the manufacturer’s instructions. That is one advantage of small packs on a hike.

Planning your hiking snacks

Pack jerky alongside your energy bars and our freeze-dried fruit to alternate between savoury and sweet snacks throughout the day. In the evening, tuck into our freeze dried food at camp. For intense activity and long trail runs, explore our sports nutrition range too.

Beef jerky FAQs

What exactly is beef jerky?

It is lean beef cut into thin strips, marinated and then dried. Dehydration gives it a firm texture and lets it keep for a long time without refrigeration. This typically American snack is popular with hikers.

Is beef jerky good for you?

It is high in protein and generally low in fat, making it a useful snack during exercise. It is salty, however, so enjoy it in moderation as part of a varied diet. Check the nutritional information on each product page.

How long does beef jerky keep?

Unopened, it keeps at room temperature until the date shown on the packaging. Once opened, eat it promptly and follow the instructions on the packet.

What’s the difference between beef jerky and biltong?

Jerky is cut into thin slices, marinated and dried, often with a heating stage. Biltong comes from South Africa. It is cut into thicker pieces, seasoned with vinegar and air-dried, giving it a more tender texture.

Can you make beef jerky at home?

You can make it in an oven or dehydrator, but you need to control the temperature and drying process carefully to ensure food safety. Our jerky is packaged for travel and ready to take with you.

A team here to help

Have a question about a flavour, pack size or product’s nutritional value? Contact us or visit our shop in Lorient. We’ll help you put together your hiking snacks.