Can Beef Jerky be Refrigerated? BEST Storage Tips for Jerky

Dehydrated Meat: A Culinary Marvel

Dehydrated meat (dried and marinated raw meat cut into thin strips or dried ground beef pressed into strips) has become a staple in many households, offering a convenient and flavorful alternative to traditional snacking options.

It is a big favorite around our house, especially when we go hiking or on backpacking trips!

As you embark on the journey of exploring dehydrated meats, whether you like to marinate slices of cut up roast or you prefer ground beef for your jerky, it's essential to understand the best practices for storage.

One common question that arises is whether dehydrated meat can or should be refrigerated. Let's delve into the nuances of storing dehydrated meat and explore the benefits and potential pitfalls.

Understanding the Dehydration Process

Before we delve into storage methods of dehydrated foods like beef jerky, it's crucial to first know about the dehydration process.

When you dehydrate food to eat - any food, it involves removing its moisture content, which is the key factor in preventing bacterial growth and spoilage for longer term storage.

When you dehydrate meat using this process, not only does it enhance the meat's shelf life but it also concentrates its flavors, making it a savory and portable food, perfect for everyday snacking, kids lunches (one of my favorite ways to use it up!) and backpacking meals.

This preservation technique is not limited to meats; it extends to fruits, vegetables, and even herbs.

Using the Right Food Dehydrator for Drying Meat

We have been making beef jerky for more than 20 years, and we have learned a thing or two along the way. The most important thing we have learned, is finding the proper dehydrator so it evenly dries your meat! There is nothing worst than having over-dried pieces and separating them from the ones that are still wet.

We have the absolute best dehydrator for beef jerky, with excellent drying power that allows us to make batch after batch (in between our other dried foods like apple chips, pear chips and more). And it is all due to the location of the fan element and having stainless steel trays.

This is the dehydrator we use

Here is a batch of jerky we made in our dehydrator (see my photo right below here), you can see I prefer strips of marinated beef rather than using ground meat, but you can see our dehydrator racks underneath. Stainless steel racks are by far the best choice when making homemade jerky.

Storing Dehydrated Meat: Best Practices

Now that we've established the significance of the dehydration process, let's explore the best practices to store dehydrated meat suck as ground beef jerky to ensure its longevity and quality.

Airtight Containers: The Guardian of Freshness

The cornerstone of preserving dehydrated meat is sealing it in an airtight container. These containers create a barrier against external elements, such as air and humidity, which can compromise the meat's texture and flavor.

To store meat, look for containers made of materials like glass, this is our recommendation. You can of course use plastic with tight-sealing lids to maintain optimal freshness, but when it comes to storing food, glass is always best.

See glass airtight containers here

Vacuum Sealing: Locking in Freshness

For extended shelf life, vacuum sealing dried meat is a really great option, and we do this often (just so we don't eat all of the jerky right away!).

Vacuum-sealed bags remove excess air, minimizing the risk of oxidation and freezer burn. This method is particularly effective for long-term storage, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer to stock up on dehydrated meats.

See vacuum sealers on Amazon here

The Role of a Vacuum Sealer: An Extra Layer of Protection

Investing in a reliable vacuum sealer is essential for optimal results. It ensures a tight seal, preventing air from infiltrating the packaging. This method is not only effective for dehydrated meat but also versatile for various food preservation needs.

We use our vacuum sealer for foods like jerky, but we find it especially handy when we are buying bulk meat from Costco, like those huge tenderloins. We portion them up and vacuum seal them before we throw them in the freezer so they last a very long time.

Refrigerating Dehydrated Meat: Yay or Nay?

Now, the burning question – can dehydrated meat and dehydrated foods be refrigerated? While dehydrated meat is designed to thrive in dry conditions, refrigeration can still play a role in dehydrated meat and home food preservation.

Short-Term Refrigeration: A Cautious Approach

If you anticipate eating the dehydrated meat within a short timeframe, refrigeration will work. However, ensure the meat is in an airtight container to prevent moisture absorption. This approach is suitable for keeping your dried food fresh for brief storage periods.

Internal Temperature Matters: The Golden Rule

When refrigerating dehydrated meat, it's very important to keep an eye on the internal temperature. Keep it consistently low to inhibit the growth of bacteria. The entire point of dehydrating meat is to remove the moisture for preservation, and storing in the fridge can reintroduce water content involuntarily, and there is a risk with that.

Long-Term Storage: Stick to Dry Environments

For prolonged storage of dried meat, it's advisable to stay away from refrigeration. Dehydrated meat thrives in dry environments, and introducing moisture, even in a refrigerator, can compromise its texture and flavor. Stick to the tried-and-true methods of airtight storage, vacuum sealing, and cool, dark storage spaces.

Dark Places: Shielding Against External Elements

Select a storage location away from direct sunlight. Dark places not only preserve the color and flavor of dehydrated meat but also shield it from potential heat, maintaining its quality over time.

FAQ: Insights into Making and Storing Beef Jerky

While we are talking about dehydrated meats, we'll also address the common questions focusing on making and storing beef jerky.

Q1: How do I prevent mold growth in beef jerky?

A1: Mold growth can be prevented by ensuring that the beef jerky is thoroughly dehydrated before storage. Use a reliable food dehydrator, maintain a clean drying environment, and store the jerky in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bags.

Q2: What is the ideal shelf life for dehydrated meats?

A2: The shelf life of dehydrated meats varies based on storage conditions. When stored in containers that are airtight or vacuum-sealed bags in a cool, dark place, dehydrated meats and dried food can last up to a year or even longer when stored correctly.

Q3: Can I use Mylar bags for storing beef jerky?

A3: Yes, Mylar bags are an option for storing beef jerky. They provide an additional layer of protection against external elements, ensuring the jerky remains fresh and flavorful.

Summary: Key Takeaways

• Dehydration Process: It's best to first understand the drying process of dehydrating meat to preserve its quality and flavor: Dehydrating food is all about removing the water content by adding heat and air to remove moisture. It's a great method of food preservation that is both safe and is absolutely delicious.

• Storage Best Practices: Use containers that are airtight and vacuum sealing for optimal freshness.

• Refrigeration Consideration: While short-term refrigeration is acceptable, long-term storage is best achieved in dry, cool environments.

• Monitoring Internal Temperature: Ensure the internal temperature of refrigerated dehydrated meat remains consistently low.

In conclusion, the art of storing dehydrated meat involves a delicate balance between preserving its essence and maintaining its quality.

Armed with the right knowledge and storage techniques, you can enjoy the flavorsome benefits of dehydrated meats for an extended period, whether at home or on your next outdoor adventure.

Wondering what else you can dehydrate for snacks, preserves and use as décor?

How To Dehydrate Mushrooms

How To Dehydrate Strawberries For A Healthy Snack!

How To Dry Orange Slices for Drinks, Garnishes & Décor

DIY Healthy Banana Chips

Which DEHYDRATOR is the BEST For Fruit (article)

Here are some other resources you may be interested in:

Where To Buy Real Beeswax

Shop for the BEST USA-made cast iron cookware HERE

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