We get a lot of jerky-related questions. From inquiries about the health benefits to concerns about its shelf life, the team at Crockett Creek has heard it all. As jerky craftsmen, we don’t really mind too much and are happy to impart our jerky-related knowledge to the masses. But we figured, why not make it easier on everyone, and compile some of our most frequently asked jerky questions in one place?
So, without further ado, here we present our most popular jerky questions and their long-awaited answers.
What Are the Different Types of Jerkies at Crockett Creek?
At Crockett Creek, we specialize in many different kinds of jerkies. We want to make sure that there’s a little bit of something for everyone in the world of craft jerky, so we’ve been thorough with our inclusion of jerky possibilities. Here’s a list of the four main types of jerkies we sell and their numerous health benefits:
Beef Jerky
Beef jerky is the most common form of jerky sold. It’s a popular favorite for gas station runs on long car trips, hikes, after-school snacks, and so much more. This classic snack is nutrient-packed, providing you great amounts of protein in every bag. Protein allows us to build and repair muscles, as well as keep our blood full of iron. Beef jerky is often used by those who are experimenting with various diets, whether it be low carb, Paleo, or Keto.
In addition to its protein content, beef jerky is high in vitamins, such as B12, phosphorus, and folate. B12 is responsible for repairing cells and tissues, whereas phosphorus works to repair bone cells. Both work together to keep your body strong and healthy. Besides being a favorite for your taste buds, beef jerky is a natural at keeping your body happy and strong.
Venison Jerky
One of the more unique kinds of jerky that we sell is our venison jerky. Venison jerky has several health benefits that beef does not. It can help to lower the amount of bad cholesterol in your bloodstream while increasing the good cholesterol. It also contains several different types of Omega-3 fats that provide your whole body with vital energy. This makes venison jerky a perfect snack for after a hard workout since its many vitamins and nutrients work to rebuild muscle tissue and reduce joint inflammation. It’s also been proven that the B vitamins found in venison jerky play a role in keeping the brain sharp, which could potentially help reduce the effects of Alzheimer’s.
Elk Jerky
The health benefits of elk jerky are similar to the jerkies we’ve mentioned above. It’s low in fat, high in protein, and full of vital vitamins and nutrients. Like venison jerky, it’s a great post-workout snack because it is high in vitamin L-Methionine. This amino acid strengthens bones by adding bone volume, mineralization, and mineral content, which is incredibly helpful when participating in endurance training. Elk jerky, like most other jerky, is also known for its long shelf life, which makes it a perfect companion on your long walks, runs, or swims.
Buffalo Jerky
Most similar to beef jerky, buffalo jerky has many of the same health benefits as the classic favorite. The key difference is that buffalo jerky is extremely low in cholesterol. It has even made it on to the “approved foods” list from the American Heart Association due to its cholesterol benefits. Buffalo meat is also high in vitamins like zinc and iron, which promote a healthy immune system. One fun fact about buffalo jerky is that it is high in vitamin B6, which is responsible for the functioning of your nervous system. B6 also helps regulate your serotonin and dopamine levels, which can help you live a mentally healthier life.
Why is Jerky a Healthy Snacking Option?
This is one of our more frequently asked questions since jerky is an unexpected healthier snack option. But, if all the health benefits listed above haven’t convinced you of the benefits of consuming jerky, here are just a few more!
Jerky is Gluten Free
For those with gluten sensitivity or concerns, finding healthy, tasty snacks can be difficult. It seems that everything in our world is either made with or processed with some form of gluten. Luckily, our jerky is completely gluten-free! We don’t process any of our meats alongside gluten-related products, nor do any of our seasonings contain gluten. Since all your allergy concerns are taken into account during production, every bite of our jerky is sure to safely satisfy your cravings.
Jerky is Low in Sugar
In order to correctly cure mass-produced jerky, the meat is usually cured in a solution of either salt, sugar, or a mixture of both, depending on the specific flavor of the jerky. Because Crockett Creek Jerky is entirely handcrafted, it’s different than your mass-produced jerky. Our jerky has no nitrates and contains much less sugar. We also have a longer cooking time, which affects how our jerky is cured. In addition, our jerky has much less sugar than other popular snacks, such as protein bars or flavored yogurt.
Jerky is Low in Calories
When dieting or exercising, calorie count becomes key. Crockett Creek Jerky only contains 80 to 90 calories per bag and is a great option when considering your health. Because our jerky is full of protein and vitamins, it can keep you satisfied for longer than other higher-calorie snacks. Take a protein bar, for instance. Your typical protein bar will contain 200-300 calories and will burn off much faster in your system due to its high sugar content, and usually transfers into fat in your body. Because of its low calorie but high protein content, jerky doesn’t become fat in your body because all its nutrients are used. Jerky’s calorie content is yet another aspect that truly makes it the superior snack food.
What is the Shelf Life of Jerky?
If you’re anything like us, you want every delicious morsel of your jerky to last for as long as possible. Jerky is generally known for its extended shelf life, but how long does it really last in your pantry?
It All Comes Down to the Packaging…
Most commercial, mass-produced jerky typically has a shelf life of about a year, as long as it remains unopened. This is because it is generally full of unhealthy preservatives that keep it “fresh” in your pantry for as long as possible.
The shelf life shortens as soon as you open a package. Once opened, most jerky can last anywhere from two to four weeks, depending on the environment you store it in. Jerky packaging contains a “best by” date that is always a good indicator of its freshness.
How Do You Know if Jerky Went Bad?
If you happen upon jerky of the past when cleaning out your pantry or refrigerator, there are a few telltale signs that it has gone bad. First, the smell of spoiled jerky is unparalleled and should be a good indicator to not eat bad meat. In addition, the jerky may be growing mold or appear darker and harder than normal.
Where Are the Best Places to Eat Jerky?
Contrary to popular belief, there is a ton of versatility to jerky. Jerky can be dressed up or down depending on your setting and can be the perfect addition to dinner parties, hikes, hunting trips, or a trip to the gym. Here are some of our favorite places to enjoy Crockett Creek Jerky!
Hiking Trips
When you think of jerky of any kind, several key images may come to mind. The deep woods, lonely hiking trails, and possibly the legendary Sasquatch himself are what many people think of when jerky is involved. Jerky makes a great hiking companion as you explore the great outdoors. As you’re about to climb a massive hill, it’s always good to get a nice protein boost to keep your energy up and your hunger low. With 9-12 grams in every bag, Crockett Creek Jerky is a perfect addition to any trek through the woods. For hiking in the winter months, check out The Chew for an article about how jerky can keep you warm!
After Hitting the Gym
Because of the many health benefits to jerky that we’ve listed above, it makes a great post-workout snack. Jerky contains the vitamins and minerals that help replenish your body after intense exercise, as well as protein to keep your iron levels high. Jerky’s protein content is almost exactly the amount that your body needs after participating in activities such as running, weightlifting, or swimming. It also contains almost exactly the number of carbs, sugar, and salt that fit most workout diets perfectly.
Long Car Trips
Picture this. A family road trip, luggage piled so high in the trunk that you can’t see out the back window, and endless wails of “He poked me!” and “No, she did!”. All you want is a snack, and maybe some gas, so you pull into the nearest station, and frantically search for your bag of specialty Crockett Creek jerky. Upon taking a bite, and sharing some with your children in the back, all is quiet, and all of the stress of the road is forgotten. We’ve all been here, and sometimes a tasty, protein-packed snack is what we need to escape the road trip slump.
Dinner Parties
Though we typically think of jerky as a member of the more rugged snack genre, our jerky is easily paired with wines, cheeses, and soups that can elevate any dinner party or social gathering. Jerky also makes a great addition to any charcuterie board, which can often be the key to a great meal. Your guests will have an unforgettable dining experience as they enjoy favorites such as a dry chardonnay, brie cheese, and our Teriyaki beef jerky. These surprisingly complex and complementary flavors only come with Crockett Creek craft jerky.
Jerky is perfect for a variety of locations, which makes it one of our favorite snacks to enjoy on the go.
Crockett Creek Jerky: The Answer to Your Snacking Quandaries
Obviously, there are endless benefits to eating craft jerky of all types and flavors, whether you’re looking for a healthy new snack or returning to an old favorite. Just like we’ve been here to answer all your pressing jerky questions, we also want to provide for whatever jerky-related desires you may have. With nearly 15 different flavors of jerky, as well as spice rubs and mixes, you’re sure to find something that will satisfy your appetite. Our flavors range from sweet, to spicy, to savory, all of which pair well with any activity you wish. If you’re looking for a unique menu for a social gathering, or a tasty snack when hiking with friends, jerky has the versatile ability to bring people together in a variety of settings.
If you’re simply dying to try some of our delicious jerkies for yourself and plan on visiting our website to order, make sure you stop by The Chew for recipe ideas, jerky pairings, and fun jerky facts to satisfy your curiosity and your appetite! If Crockett Creek has what you need, or you have a pressing question for our jerky team, contact us at (865) 546-7702.
