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 beef jerky you purchase. Let’s dive in.

Some unopened store-bought jerky is vacuum-sealed, while others are sealed in a modified atmosphere package (MAP). MAP is when the air in the package is replaced with a specific mixture of gases tailored to the packaged food product to help extend its shelf life. With both options, 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 maintains its quality 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.

LK’s jerky and sticks have the best-by date printed on the packaging, which is the date we know the product will still maintain the same quality 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 & Quality

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 LK’s selection of meat snacks, you should try to keep the product in its original packaging for the 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 LK’s Seasoned and Smoked Beef Jerky

LK’s Smoke Show beef jerky is certified free from the top 9 allergens: peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, milk, sesame, eggs, fish, shellfish, and soy. Did we also mention it’s certified gluten-free and paleo-friendly?

Shop all of LK’s tasty meat snacks to enjoy a shelf-stable treat made from real ingredients that you can feel good about.