Beef Sticks vs Beef Jerky: What’s the Difference?

Picture it: you’re standing in front of the rack of meat snacks at your local gas station. There are so many options to choose from, including beef sticks and beef jerky. Which do you choose? What’s the difference? Is there a difference at all?

While both snacks are made of meat, there are a few differences between beef sticks and beef jerky. Here, we break down these differences and the similarities so you can feel confident in your choice of snack (of course, you could always just buy both). 

What Are Beef Sticks?

Beef sticks are basically tubes of delicious ground beef. The beef is first seasoned to perfection and then stuffed into a casing (like a sausage) and smoked. Just like jerky, beef sticks can be made to be non-perishable, but some products are perishable and require refrigeration.

What Is Beef Jerky?

Beef jerky is made using seasoned beef that is marinated, cured and dried. The result of the dehydration process makes jerky shelf-stable. There are many types of beef jerky, ranging from strips to bite-sized cuts. Plus, many flavor varieties exist, from spicy to sweet.

Is a Beef Stick the Same as Beef Jerky?

The simple answer? No. Beef sticks and beef jerky are two different things, although they have some similarities. Let’s break it down, shall we?

Both Jack Link’s beef jerky and beef sticks are made using quality cuts of beef. In both cases, the beef is seasoned and dehydrated. Both jerky and sticks are made to last because they do not require refrigeration until three days after opening. Jack Link’s meat snacks will last around 12 months if left unopened. 

A key difference is the texture of both snacks. While beef sticks often have a softer texture due to how they’re made, jerky may have a tougher texture than sticks.

Nutrition Differences Between Beef Sticks vs Beef Jerky

Beef sticks and beef jerky may also have slight nutrition differences, depending on the brand you choose. We’ll use our products as an example.

One nutritional difference is fat content. For example, Jack Link’s Original Beef Sticks have 18 grams of fat per serving, while Jack Link’s Original Beef Jerky has 1.5 grams of fat per serving.

Beef Sticks vs Beef Jerky: Which Is Best?

With all of the similarities and differences covered, you may be wondering which option is best. The answer: It depends on your personal preference. Do you want a one-handed meat snack with a softer chew? Then a beef stick might be a great choice. Do you want the simple, no-nonsense taste of beef with a longer lasting chew? Then jerky might be right up your alley.

And if you’re simply looking for a meat snack that’s easy for on-the-go snacking, made to last and delicious, you can’t go wrong with either option.

From Sticks to Jerky, You’ll Find Your Fave Snack Here

No matter if you’re Team Beef Stick or Team Beef Jerky, you’ll find your new favorite snack here. Not a beef fan? We’ve got chicken, turkey and pork too. Learn more about our products by shopping today.