Types of Jerky – The Ultimate Jerky Guide

Do you know what’s great about jerky? That there are types of jerky for everyone! Whether you’re an avid meat lover looking for your next taste bud adventure or just dipping your toe in the world of jerky, you’re sure to find something you love. 

The world of jerky is large and accepting of all. You can have your choice of different meats, flavors, textures and more. No matter what gets your snack cravings going, jerky has your back! 

So, grab a seat, sharpen your appetite, and let’s dive into the incredible realm of jerky! 

Jerky Doesn’t Stop at Beef: Jerky Meat & Protein Types

A common misconception in the world of jerky is that beef jerky reigns supreme. While beef jerky is a great choice, it’s far from your only option.

Beef Jerky

When you think about jerky, your mind will probably focus on beef jerky. Indeed, beef jerky is the most common and classically enjoyed form of jerky.

Looking for the best beef jerky? No beef jerky comes closer to perfection than Jack Link’s Original Beef Jerky. This smoky, savory snack has 10 grams of protein per serving and is rich in flavor. Why stop there? Jack Link’s beef jerky comes in other options like mango and jalapeno beef jerky or Original zero sugar beef jerky.  

Turkey Jerky

Turkey jerky, such as Jack Link’s Original Turkey Jerky, is a flavorful snack. Jack Link’s premium turkey jerky is made of 100% white meat turkey breast that carries 12 grams of protein per serving and 70 calories. 

Pork Jerky

While pork jerky may not be what comes to mind when you first think of jerky, it should never be overlooked. If you want to explore unique and delicious pork jerky flavors, Golden Island Korean Barbecue Pork Jerky is a must-try. 

Game Jerky

Now it’s time to get into the unique world of jerky. Game jerky is made out of wild animals such as deer, elk, bison, and boar.

Game jerky is most often enjoyed by outdoor enthusiasts or anyone looking to elevate their snacking game with new culinary experiences. If you want to take your taste buds on an adventure, game jerky can be found at specialty stores and online retailers.  

Fish Jerky

For all of you seafood enthusiasts, jerky has not abandoned you! Fish jerky takes the delicious fish filets you love and turns them into a convenient snack. 

Fish jerky combines a number of different salts, spices, and herbs to create a unique flavor in the world of jerky. If you want to step into the wild side of snacking, you can find fish jerky at specialty online retailers or local seafood markets. 

Exotic Jerky

As the name suggests, exotic jerky is reserved for jerky enthusiasts who are always looking to try something new. Exotic jerky can encompass a variety of animals such as kangaroo, alligator, ostrich, and even sharks. Because exotic jerky is so rare, it’s mainly sold at specialty stores or farmers’ markets. 

Plant-Based Jerky

Who says jerky is just reserved for meat lovers? Plant-based jerky is the perfect solution for anyone who is a vegetarian or even a jerky enthusiast looking for a new bold, and delicious jerky experience. 

Using plant proteins such as soy, wheat gluten, mushrooms, and tofu, plant-based jerky is made to resemble the same great texture and taste of traditional jerky while appealing to those with dietary restrictions. Plant-based jerky can be found in specialty and health stores. 

Jerky Flavors

Most people think of smoky and savory flavors when they think of jerky, but the flavor options are endless! Here are a few of the different flavor profiles for every taste.

Jack Link’s Original

When it comes to jerky, nothing beats the original. Jack Link’s Original Beef Jerky provides that perfect smoky, sweet, and savory flavor that’s enjoyed by jerky beginners and enthusiasts alike. 

Our Original flavor is also available in our beef jerky chew, which is shredded beef jerky that offers all of the smoky, delicious flavor in a lighter, airy texture.

Teriyaki

Sometimes you just want a tried and true classic jerky flavor: teriyaki. Jack Link’s Teriyaki Beef Jerky is beloved in the jerky world for its sweet and savory flavors. 

Can’t choose between Original or teriyaki? You don’t have to with Jack Link’s DUOS! Our DUOS Original and teriyaki beef jerky offers both flavors in one package, making it easier than ever to enjoy your favorite flavors.

Peppered

Peppered jerky is a simplistic and bold flavor that elevates your snack routine. With just a simple touch of cracked black pepper, Jack Link’s Peppered Beef Jerky can add just a little zing to your day. Can’t get enough peppered flavor? Check out Jack Link’s Jerky Pounders – a whole pound of peppered beef jerky!

Spicy

Jack Link’s Jalapeno Beef Jerky doesn’t mess around when it comes to heat. Using a complex blend of spices, our spicy beef jerky is sure to keep you satisfied.

Sweet & Spicy

Sometimes the perfect jerky comes from finding that perfect balance between hot and sweet. Jack Link’s Sweet & Hot Beef Jerky gives a punch of spice but then cools you down with just the perfect touch of sweetness. 

Jerky Textures

When it comes to enjoying our jerky, we all have preferences on what we want texture-wise. Some of us like to really sink our teeth into jerky with a more old-fashioned texture, while others prefer a more tender jerky. 

No matter the type of jerky you like best, you’ll always find something you love!

Medium Tough

Medium-tough jerky is the perfect compromise between the firmness of old-fashioned jerky and the ease of tender jerky. Jack Link’s Original Beef Jerky provides a satisfying texture that requires a bit of chewing without being overly tough. 

Old Fashioned Beef Jerky 

Old-fashioned beef jerky takes us back to the traditional method of jerky making. With a firm and dry texture, you can really savor the flavor of Wild River Old Fashioned Beef Jerky. 

Tender Beef Jerky and Beef Products

Tender Jerky is for anyone who wants a great-tasting jerky, but that gives their teeth and jaw a break. Tender beef jerky bites like our teriyaki beef tender bites offer a more delicate and less resistant texture. 

Styles of Beef Jerky

One of the most significant factors that determine the texture and overall jerky experience is the style of the jerky. More traditional jerky is formed out of the whole muscle, while chopped and formed jerky allows for different textures and flavors. 

Whole Muscle

Whole Muscle jerky is any jerky made from intact cuts of meat. Unlike chopped and formed jerky, whole-muscle jerky maintains the natural shape and structure of the meat. 

The process of making whole-muscle jerky begins with selecting lean cuts of meat. Once the cuts are selected, the meat is trimmed of excess fat, and sliced into consistent thin strips. Then it goes into the seasoning and drying process. 

Chopped and Formed

Chopped and formed jerky refers to jerky that is made from small pieces or shreds of meat bound together to make jerky. Often, chopped and formed jerky can offer more flavors because the seasonings and spices are directly blended in with the pieces of meat. 

To make chopped and formed jerky, you grind your meat and desired spices into a fine texture. You then mix the meat with binders and form the meat into your desired shapes. 

If you’re interested in a softer meat snack that doesn’t compromise on flavor, try Jack Link’s DUOS Buffalo and Ranch Chicken Tender Bites.

Understanding the Differences in Beef Jerky: From Grass-Fed to Organic

The way the cattle are raised has an impact on the final jerky product. Let’s break down the differences.

Grass-Fed

Simply put, grass-fed jerky is jerky made from the meat of animals that have been primarily fed a diet of grass for their entire lives. Often, this grass diet may lead to leaner cuts of meat with a firm texture and a more pronounced meat flavor. 

Grass-Finished

Unlike grass-fed, grass-finished refers to animals who were only fed a diet of grass toward the later stages of the animal’s life. However, the texture and quality are almost identical to grass-fed jerky, with a firm texture and robust meat flavor. 

Corn-Fed

Corn-fed animals eat a diet of corn for their entire life. This corn-based diet can lead to more tender jerky with rich flavors. 

Organic

Organic jerky comes from animals that were raised under organic farming practices. For example, they ate food grown using natural fertilizers and without synthetic pesticides. Organic jerky can have a more natural and old-fashioned texture and flavor. 

Nutrition Types of Beef Jerky

Low Sodium

Low-sodium jerky refers to jerky that has been made using less salt compared to traditional jerky, which will help you reduce your sodium intake without sacrificing flavor. 

Sugar-Free

Sugar-free jerky has zero sugars or artificial sweeteners. But just because your jerky has zero sugar doesn’t mean it has zero flavor. Jack Link’s Zero Sugar Original Beef Jerky gives you that one-of-a-kind flavor you expect from Jack Link’s without any of the sugars or artificial sweeteners.  

Picking the Right Types of Jerky 

When it comes to jerky, there is no end to the different ways you can enjoy your favorites. From different meats, flavors, textures, and more, jerky is the perfect snack for any circumstance!

If you want to delve deeper into all the different types of jerky, there is no substitute for Jack’s Links. Shop Jack Link’s jerky online or find a store near you!