Imagine a snack that’s not only delicious but also packed with protein and made from simple, wholesome ingredients. That’s the promise of natural beef jerky. But with so many brands on the shelves, how do you know which one truly lives up to that promise? It can be frustrating to try and figure out what “natural” really means on a label, and you might worry about hidden sugars, artificial flavors, or lower-quality meat.
Choosing the right natural beef jerky shouldn’t be a guessing game. You want a snack that fuels your body, satisfies your cravings, and tastes amazing, all while being made with ingredients you can recognize. In this post, we’ll cut through the confusion and explore what makes beef jerky truly natural. We’ll help you understand the key things to look for, so you can confidently pick a jerky that’s both healthy and incredibly tasty.
Get ready to discover the secrets to fantastic natural beef jerky. We’ll dive into the ingredients that matter, explain what to avoid, and even share tips on how to enjoy this classic snack to its fullest. By the end, you’ll be a jerky-picking pro, ready to grab the best natural beef jerky out there!
Top Natural Beef Jerky Recommendations
- Beef Jerky the Old Fashioned Way: We start with 100 percent premium beef, season it with real pronounceable ingredients you could find in your pantry, and slow smoke it over real hardwood
- Perfect Protein On the Go: With 10 grams of protein per serving, our artfully cured, premium beef jerky makes for a perfect portable protein snack anytime to keep you satisfied and energized on the go
- Shop Our Whole Range: We make a wide variety of jerky and meat sticks, including Keto Friendly Zero Sugar, Old Fashioned, Teriyaki, Pepperoni, Spicy Jalapeño, Sweet and Spicy, Pepper, and more
- Crafted by the Best: We use only the best beef, pork, and seasonings fresh from the farm; Smoking our meat sticks over real hardwood gives it an unparalleled taste; No shortcuts, just fire and smoke and patience
- Smoked in Oregon: For over 4 decades, we’ve been making mouth watering smokehouse snacks, the kind you can only get when you mix hard work, simple ingredients and real hardwood smoke
- GRAZLY BEEF BRISKET SLABS: Grazly Beef Brisket Slabs are made from grass-fed, regeneratively raised beef, offering a natural and wholesome snack. These slabs contain no additives or preservatives, allowing the flavor of the beef to shine through. The combination of tender brisket meat with a rich texture creates an enjoyable snack experience for any beef lover.
- STEAKHOUSE QUALITY: Brisket Slabs are premium beef that come in a convenient single-pack 5oz bag, equivalent to 1 pound of raw meat. Crafted from the same high-grade cuts found in top steakhouses, every bite delivers rich, bold flavor you'd expect from a fine dining experience. Perfect for on-the-go snacking without compromising on quality.
- MADE WITH 2 INGREDIENTS: Our brisket slabs are made with just two ingredients: 100% grass-fed beef and microplastic-free spring salt. This minimalist approach allows you to savor the natural flavor of beef without any unnecessary additives. The spring salt enhances the beef's flavor, creating a savory, balanced taste. These slabs provide a clean and satisfying snack that you can feel good about enjoying.
- TENDER AND RICH TEXTURE: These jerky slabs offer a unique combination of tender, juicy brisket with a rich, buttery, velvety, and fatty edge. Complete cross sections of brisket in every piece (no random bits), creating a satisfying melt-in-your-mouth experience. The balance between the soft, buttery center and savory exterior provides full-bodied flavor, making these slabs a delightful treat for snacking or enjoying at home.
- PROTEIN-RICH SNACK: These slabs are a great choice for anyone looking to increase their protein intake. Each serving provides a substantial amount, offering a filling and flavorful way to enjoy beef. Whether you’re snacking or adding them to your meals, these slabs offer a simple and convenient way to incorporate more protein into your daily routine, helping you stay energized and satisfied all day long.
- SMART SNACK: Drop those chips and crackers; Beef jerky is a better snack food with 11 grams of protein and 70 calories per serving
- DELICIOUS: Tender, smoky, and just a little sweet, this is gourmet jerky you'll love to snack on
- QUALITY FOOD: Made with 100 percent lean beef, quality ingredients, and natural wood smoke
- CONVENIENT: Perfect pantry snacks; Stash bags in your glove box, gym bag, or at the office
- PERFECT SIZE: A resealable 8-ounce package means your jerky stays fresh longer
- ZERO SUGAR ORIGINAL FLAVOR: Slow-smoked over real hardwood, this Original flavor Beef Jerky delivers a rich, savory taste with 0g sugar, 0g total carbs, and 14g protein per serving. Crafted from fine cuts of 100% beef for satisfying snacking during busy workdays, travel, workouts, or between meals
- KETO-FRIENDLY HIGH PROTEIN SNACK: Designed for keto and sugar-conscious individuals, this protein-packed, low carb snack helps satisfy midday cravings between meals without any artificial sweeteners. A reliable snack option for gym sessions, office breaks, road trips, outdoor plans, or everyday schedules
- MADE WITH 100% FINE BEEF: Handcrafted using fine beef for tender texture and rich flavor, making it convenient for busy schedules, on-the-go munching, post-workout, or whenever hunger strikes. Traditional smoking and seasoning methods bring bold character to every bite without the unnecessary additives
- NO ARTIFICIAL INGREDIENTS: These gluten free protein snacks for adults contain no artificial ingredients. With 0g of trans fat and straightforward preparation methods, this jerky delivers taste and texture for diverse dietary preferences. No shortcuts, just fire and smoke and patience!
- ON THE GO SNACKS FOR ACTIVE LIFESTYLES: Keep this Tillamook Beef Jerky pack in your gym bags, backpacks, desk drawers, lunch boxes, or car consoles for quick protein anytime hunger strikes. Suitable for hiking, commuting, bringing it to the park, travel, late-night cravings, or on-the-go snacking anytime
- Honey Glazed Beef Jerky: We like to call Honey Glazed our "Goldilocks" flavor; Not too sweet, not too savory, just right; Made with premium beef, season it with real ingredients and slow smoked over real hardwood
- Perfect Protein On the Go: With 10 grams of protein per serving, our artfully cured, premium beef jerky makes for a perfect portable protein snack anytime to keep you satisfied and energized on the go
- Shop Our Whole Range: We make a wide variety of jerky and meat sticks, including Keto Friendly Zero Sugar, Old Fashioned, Teriyaki, Pepperoni, Spicy Jalapeño, Sweet and Spicy, Pepper, and more
- Crafted by the Best: We use only the best beef, pork, and seasonings fresh from the farm; Smoking our meat sticks over real hardwood gives it an unparalleled taste; No shortcuts, just fire and smoke and patience
- Smoked in Oregon: For over 4 decades, we’ve been making mouth watering smokehouse snacks, the kind you can only get when you mix hard work, simple ingredients and real hardwood smoke
- [THE ORIGINAL REAL-DEAL JERKY] We stick to tradition with thick-cut whole-muscle beef, simply seasoned and slow-dried to a dry, chewy texture. No sugar. No sweetness. Just bold beef flavor.
- [DRY, CHEWY TEXTURE] This is the opposite of soft and sweet. Our jerky is rugged, steak-like, and meant to be chewed. The longer you chew, the more flavor you get.
- [ZERO CARB, 16G PROTEIN PER SERVING] A powerful protein snack made with 0g sugar and 0g carbs. Perfect for keto, paleo, and low-carb lifestyles.
- [CLEAN LABEL SNACKING] No preservatives. No MSG. Gluten free, soy free, nut free. Just beef and real spices—nothing else.
- [MADE IN THE USA SINCE 1929] Family-owned and operated for four generations. Handcrafted in Downtown Los Angeles using old-school methods that haven’t changed in nearly 100 years.
- Total Snackage: Each satisfying 1.15 oz Original Beef Jerky snack stick is made with high quality, real ingredients, has 10 grams of protein, zero sugar, and just 100 calories. The perfect snack you can feel good about anytime, anywhere.
- Convenience Meets Quality: Our commitment to quality shines through with 100% grass-fed and finished beef. Whether you're hitting the trails, at the office, or simply need a quick boost of energy between meals, Chomps offers the perfect blend of convenience and quality.
- Bold Flavors: Our Original beef meat sticks feature the same savory taste that made us popular: slightly smokey, slightly spicy.
- Nutrition your taste buds understand: Nourishing snack that's as friendly to your body as your taste buds. Keto Friendly, Whole30 approved, Paleo, Certified Gluten Free, Non-GMO, plus free from the top 9 allergens.
- As a minority, family-owned and operated healthy snacking brand, Chomps is made from the highest-quality proteins with no hidden, harmful ingredients. Our mission is to inspire, educate, and fuel our community with accessible, real food that doesn't compromise on taste.
- 100% GRASS-FED & FINISHED BEEF: These grass fed beef sticks deliver 10g of protein, 0g of sugar, and only 100 calories, made from 100% grass-fed and finished beef with no artificial ingredients. These meat sticks provide a convenient, high protein snack option for workdays, travel, and active routines
- MADE FOR CONVENIENT SNACKING: The stick format fits backpacks, gym bags, lunch boxes, and desk drawers. Suitable for school lunches, work breaks, outdoor activities and road trips, we make our meat sticks individually wrapped protein snacks for adults, kids, and families, simple and easily accessible
- SIMPLE INGREDIENTS, SMOKED OVER REAL HARDWOOD: Made with recognizable ingredients and slow-smoked over real hardwood, these Tillamook Beef Sticks reflect our traditional smokehouse preparation for consistent flavor and tender texture without artificial ingredients or unnecessary additives
- CLEAN DIET-COMPATIBLE BEEF SNACKS: These beef sticks are Whole30 Approved, Non-GMO Project Verified, Gluten Free, Paleo, and keto friendly snacks made without added antibiotics, hormones, allergens, or nitrates/nitrites added, supporting a range of ingredient-focused eating preferences
- Smoked in Oregon Since 1975: For over four decades, Tillamook Country Smoker has been making mouth watering smokehouse snacks with family recipes perfected over generations. Rooted in tradition, smoked with purpose, and made better because we make them the right way
Your Guide to Delicious Natural Beef Jerky
Looking for a tasty and healthy snack? Natural beef jerky is a fantastic option. It’s made with simple ingredients and offers a satisfying chew. This guide helps you pick the best jerky for your munching needs.
What Makes Natural Beef Jerky Great?
Natural beef jerky stands out because it uses fewer artificial ingredients. You’ll often find it made with real beef, natural seasonings, and minimal preservatives. This means you get a purer, more wholesome snack.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for natural beef jerky, keep these important features in mind:
- Simple Ingredient List: The best jerky has a short list of ingredients you recognize. Look for beef, salt, spices, and natural sweeteners. Avoid jerky with long lists of unpronounceable words.
- Beef Quality: Good jerky starts with good beef. Look for terms like “grass-fed” or “100% natural beef.” This means the cows were raised in a healthier way, and the beef tastes better.
- Low Sodium and Sugar: While some salt and sugar are needed for flavor and preservation, too much can be unhealthy. Check the nutrition label.
- No Artificial Additives: Natural jerky avoids artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives like MSG or nitrates.
- Texture: Jerky can be tender or tough. Consider if you prefer a chewy bite or something softer.
Important Materials
The main material is, of course, beef. Different cuts of beef work well.
- Lean Cuts: Makers often use lean cuts like sirloin, round, or flank steak. These cuts dry well and create a chewy texture.
- Marinades: The beef is usually marinated before drying. Natural marinades use ingredients like soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free), Worcestershire sauce, honey, maple syrup, and various spices (pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder).
Factors That Affect Quality
Several things can make jerky better or worse.
- Drying Process: How the jerky is dried matters. Slow drying at lower temperatures helps preserve flavor and texture.
- Marinade Time: Letting the beef soak in the marinade for a good amount of time allows the flavors to sink in.
- Freshness: Just like any food, fresh jerky tastes best. Check the “best by” date.
- Storage: Proper storage keeps jerky fresh. Keep it in a cool, dry place.
User Experience and Use Cases
People love natural beef jerky for many reasons.
- On-the-Go Snack: It’s perfect for hiking, camping, road trips, or just a quick bite at work. It doesn’t need refrigeration.
- High Protein: Jerky is a great source of protein, which helps you feel full and keeps your muscles strong.
- Flavor Variety: You can find it in many flavors, from classic black pepper to spicy chili lime or sweet teriyaki.
- Healthier Alternative: It’s a better choice than many processed snacks like chips or candy.
Frequently Asked Questions about Natural Beef Jerky
Here are some common questions people have about natural beef jerky.
Q: What does “natural” mean for beef jerky?
A: “Natural” usually means the jerky has no artificial ingredients, preservatives, or added colors. The beef itself is also typically raised without added hormones or antibiotics.
Q: Is natural beef jerky healthy?
A: Yes, natural beef jerky can be a healthy snack because it’s high in protein and made with simple ingredients. However, always check the sodium and sugar content on the nutrition label.
Q: What is the best cut of beef for jerky?
A: Lean cuts like sirloin, round steak, or flank steak are best. They dry well and give jerky a good chewy texture.
Q: How long does natural beef jerky last?
A: Unopened, natural beef jerky can last for many months, often up to a year, if stored properly in a cool, dry place. Once opened, it’s best to eat it within a few weeks or refrigerate it.
Q: Can I make natural beef jerky at home?
A: Absolutely! Making jerky at home allows you to control all the ingredients and create your own flavors. You’ll need a dehydrator or an oven.
Q: What are common natural seasonings for jerky?
A: Common natural seasonings include black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
Q: Is all beef jerky considered “natural”?
A: No, not all beef jerky is natural. Many brands use artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors. It’s important to read the ingredient list.
Q: What’s the difference between natural and organic beef jerky?
A: Organic beef jerky comes from cows raised on organic feed and without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. Natural beef jerky focuses on avoiding artificial additives but doesn’t necessarily meet strict organic standards.
Q: How should I store beef jerky?
A: Store unopened jerky in a cool, dry place, like a pantry. Once opened, you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for a short time, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
Q: What are some good uses for natural beef jerky besides snacking?
A: You can chop it up and add it to salads, trail mix, or even use it as a topping for soups and stews. Its savory flavor adds a nice punch.