Does Beef Jerky Need to Be Refrigerated?

Although beef jerky is shelf-stable, it must be stored properly to ensure it’s tasty each time you take a bite. But does jerky need to be refrigerated? It truly depends on the type of meat snacks you purchase. Let’s dive in.

Some unopened store-bought jerky is vacuum-sealed, others are sealed in a modified atmosphere package. This means unopened jerky can be kept in your pantry for up to a year or until the best-by date on the package.

How Shelf-Stable Is Beef Jerky?

Jerky can be kept in your pantry for up to a year or until the best-by date on the package. Once opened, you should keep your jerky in the fridge. Taking these measures once opened will ensure your jerky stays fresh for up to 3 days. If your jerky requires refrigeration, it should say so on the bag or box.

Does Beef Jerky Really Go Bad?

It definitely can. You might notice a bit of an off smell or the jerky may be darker in color. If you even suspect your jerky is bad, don’t eat it and reach out to customer service.

Lorissa’s Kitchen’s Strips and Sticks have the best by date printed on the packaging, which is the date we know the product will still be as fresh as the day it was packaged. We cannot guarantee the optimal quality of any of our products after the “best by” date (or more than three days after the package is opened). Simply put, we don’t recommend consuming any product after the date listed on the package.

How to Store Beef Jerky for the Best Flavor & Freshness

The best way to keep your jerky tasting great is to store it properly. There are a few different ways you can do this, including storing your jerky in the fridge or the pantry in it’s sealed bag. If you’re purchasing Lorissa’s Kitchen’s selection of meat snacks, you should try to keep the product in it’s original packaging for best results.

In the Fridge

The best way to keep opened store-bought jerky fresh is to keep it cold. For opening jerky, make sure you keep it in the original packaging in the fridge which should stay fresh and flavorful for up to three days.

We don’t recommend putting jerky in the freezer. Freezing jerky can lead to a change in texture and compromise taste. We want you to have the best experience with our meat snacks, so be sure to follow the label on the bag!

Try Lorissa’s Kitchen Tender & Delicious Beef Steak Strips

Lorissa’s Kitchen beef steak strips have a higher moisture to protein ratio than jerky, making them more tender than traditional jerky. Plus, they are made with 100% grass-fed beef and no preservatives, our snacks are options you can feel good about.

We know you work hard for your money, so if you purchase something from us and you’re not 100% satisfied, give us a call within 14 days of your purchase and we’ll be so happy to replace your purchase with coupons at an equal or greater value.

Shop our products to find Lorissa’s Kitchen in a grocery aisle near you.