How Long Does Beef Jerky Stay Good? Here’s The Answer!

Beef jerky is a popular snack food made from dehydrated beef. It is a convenient and portable food that can be enjoyed on the go. But how long does beef jerky stay good? The answer depends on a number of factors, including the type of beef jerky, how it is stored, and whether it is opened or unopened.

Types of Beef Jerky

There are two main types of beef jerky: commercial and homemade. Commercial beef jerky is made in a factory and is typically sold in stores. Homemade beef jerky is made at home using a dehydrator.

Commercial beef jerky is typically made with preservatives, which help to extend its shelf life. Homemade beef jerky does not contain preservatives, so it has a shorter shelf life.

Storage Conditions

The storage conditions also affect how long beef jerky stays good. Beef jerky should be stored in a cool, dry place. The ideal temperature for storing beef jerky is between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Beef jerky should not be stored in the refrigerator, as this can cause it to become tough and chewy. Beef jerky should also not be stored in the freezer, as this can cause it to lose its flavor.

Opened vs. Unopened Beef Jerky

Opened beef jerky has a shorter shelf life than unopened beef jerky. This is because the packaging helps to protect the beef jerky from moisture and oxygen. Once the packaging is opened, the beef jerky is exposed to these elements, which can cause it to spoil more quickly.

How Long Does Beef Jerky Stay Good?

The shelf life of beef jerky depends on the type of beef jerky, how it is stored, and whether it is opened or unopened. Here is a general guide to how long beef jerky stays good:

• Commercial beef jerky: Unopened: 1 year; Opened: 2-3 weeks
• Homemade beef jerky: Unopened: 6 months; Opened: 1-2 weeks

Signs of Spoilage

There are a few signs that beef jerky has gone bad. These include:

• Mold: Mold is a sign that beef jerky has gone bad. If you see any mold on your beef jerky, it should be discarded.
• Slime: Slime is another sign that beef jerky has gone bad. If you see any slime on your beef jerky, it should be discarded.
• Off odor: Beef jerky that has gone bad will have an off odor. If your beef jerky smells bad, it should be discarded.
• Taste: Beef jerky that has gone bad will taste bad. If your beef jerky tastes bad, it should be discarded.

How to Extend the Shelf Life of Beef Jerky

There are a few things you can do to extend the shelf life of beef jerky. These include:

• Store beef jerky in a cool, dry place. The ideal temperature for storing beef jerky is between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Keep beef jerky in an airtight container. This will help to protect the beef jerky from moisture and oxygen.
• Vacuum-seal beef jerky. Vacuum-sealing is the best way to extend the shelf life of beef jerky. Vacuum-sealed beef jerky can be stored for up to 2 years.

What You Need to Learn

How long does beef jerky last in the refrigerator?

Opened beef jerky can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Unopened beef jerky can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.

How long does beef jerky last in the freezer?

Beef jerky can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 years. However, it is important to note that freezing beef jerky will affect its texture and flavor.

Can I eat beef jerky that has gone bad?

No, you should not eat beef jerky that has gone bad. Eating spoiled beef jerky can cause food poisoning.

What are the symptoms of food poisoning from beef jerky?

The symptoms of food poisoning from beef jerky can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, food poisoning can be fatal.

How can I prevent food poisoning from beef jerky?

The best way to prevent food poisoning from beef jerky is to eat it before it goes bad. You should also store beef jerky properly and avoid eating beef jerky that has been opened for more than 2 weeks.