Beef Jerky Shelf Life: Storage Rules and Signs It's Gone Bad
Beef jerky has a reputation for lasting almost forever in a pantry, and for the most part, that reputation is earned. But "shelf-stable" doesn't mean "lasts forever no matter what," and knowing the real storage rules keeps you from either tossing good jerky too early or eating a bag that's actually turned. Frank's Butcher Shop's Beef Jerky (Original Flavor) is dried the traditional way, which is exactly what gives it that long shelf life in the first place. Here's how long jerky actually lasts, how to store it properly, and the signs that tell you it's time to toss a bag. Why Beef Jerky Lasts So Long Jerky's long shelf life comes down to one process: drying. Beef jerky starts as lean beef that's sliced, seasoned, and then dried at low heat until most of the moisture is gone. That moisture removal is what preserves the meat, since bacteria and mold both need moisture to grow and spread. Less moisture in the finished product means a...