What to Look for When Choosing Beef Jerky

One of these snacks that can vary greatly from one brand to another is beef jerky. Some are soft and easily chewed, others are quite a bit drier and surprisingly tough. There are also variations in seasoning, thickness, ingredients and saltiness. You may have a favorite, and know what you like. However, there are a few things to note if you’re trying something new.

The first point to look is on the sodium. When you’re working to limit your sodium intake, the first step is to search for low sodium beef jerky. Traditionally, jerky is flavored and dried using salt, so it is important to read the nutrition panel to find out what is being added to the product in each serving.

Taste is just as important. Some people enjoy a smoky taste, others a sweeter or spicier taste. There is no one flavor that will please all. For the most part, it is just about taste and the kind of foods that you will consume the jerky with.

Another thing that’s underutilized and neglected is texture. A thin, dry piece can be quite different from a thicker, softer piece of jerky. You might want something that is easy to tear up and consume without making too much of mess if you’re on a road trip or storing some in a drawer at your desk.

The style of beef cut can also impact the experience. Different cuts can have different amounts of fat and different textures. Some jerky is made very lean and other varieties can be a little bit richer.

It’s also important to keep in mind portion size. Jerky packs a lot of food into a small size, so don’t be fooled by its small size. Single servings can be handy if using it as a snack on the go to hikes or trips or when you’re really busy. If you’re sharing with family or storing a supply at home, you might want to consider larger packages.

You can’t always tell what’s on offer when you’re trying to select the best beef jerky, so it’s best to take a look at the actual ingredients. Look at ingredients, nutrition panel, texture and taste. While reviews can give you some insight into what other people enjoyed, your tastes and preferences will still be the most important.

It is also a good idea to examine the way the jerky is packaged. Packaging can play a very important role in storage and transport if you’re planning to keep it longer than a few hours or take it to another location. If purchasing multiple bags, consider how fast you will consume them, instead of ordering more than necessary.

If you’re new to jerky, it can be easiest to find out what you like by experimenting with a couple of different styles. You may find you like a more gentle grind or some of the seasonings won’t be quite the same as you thought!

At the final, choosing jerky isn’t difficult. Take a quick peak at the nutrition facts, the texture you like, and the flavor you like, as well as when you’ll eat it. With these things in mind, you’ll be better prepared to find a jerky that fits your tastes.