Beef Jerky 101: How Long to Dehydrate, How Long It Lasts, and Whether It’s Fattening

Beef jerky has been a trusted, high-protein snack for centuries, loved by everyone from campers and hunters to busy parents and athletes. But when you make it at home or buy handcrafted jerky, you might still wonder:

  • How long should I dehydrate beef jerky?

  • How long does beef jerky last once it’s made?

  • Is beef jerky fattening?

At Wisconsin River Meats, we believe in clear, honest answers about the foods we love. Here’s everything you need to know about beef jerky — from preparation to storage to nutrition — so you can enjoy every bite with confidence.

How Long to Dehydrate Beef Jerky

If you’re making homemade jerky, the dehydration process is crucial. You want a safe, shelf-stable product that still has that classic chewy texture.

On average, beef jerky takes between 4 and 8 hours to dehydrate, depending on:

  • Slice thickness — thinner strips dry faster

  • Dehydrator or smoker temperature — usually 145–165°F

  • Humidity in the drying environment

  • Moisture content of the beef

For best results:

  • Slice beef thin (about 1/8–1/4 inch thick)

  • Use a consistent temperature around 160°F

  • Rotate trays or racks for even drying

  • Check for doneness after 4 hours by bending a strip — it should crack slightly but not snap completely in half

Pro tip: Always aim for an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure harmful bacteria are destroyed.

If you want a traditional smoked flavor, you can also use a smoker instead of a dehydrator. That process takes about the same time but adds authentic hardwood smoke, just like we do here at Wisconsin River Meats.

How Long Does Beef Jerky Last?

Beef jerky is prized for its shelf life, but how long does it actually last?

Commercial beef jerky (vacuum-sealed and packaged properly) will last:

  • Up to 1 year unopened if kept in a cool, dry place

  • About 1 week once opened, if stored in an airtight container at room temperature

  • 2–3 weeks if kept in the fridge after opening

Homemade beef jerky, with no artificial preservatives, is best within:

  • 1–2 weeks in an airtight container at room temperature

  • Up to 1 month in the fridge

  • Up to 6 months in the freezer

For maximum freshness, store jerky away from sunlight and moisture, and always use clean hands or utensils when handling it.

At Wisconsin River Meats, our jerky is vacuum-sealed and handcrafted in small batches, so you get a fresh, traditional product with excellent shelf life. Check out our Beef Jerky Collection to see our lineup.

Is Beef Jerky Fattening?

This is a great question, because jerky is often thought of as a “processed” snack. But the truth is:

Beef jerky is not necessarily fattening — in fact, it can be part of a healthy diet. Here’s why:

  • Jerky is high in protein, which supports muscle repair and keeps you full

  • It’s low in carbohydrates, making it keto- and low-carb–friendly

  • It is relatively calorie-dense, but portion-controlled thanks to its chewy texture

  • Quality jerky made from lean cuts of beef (like top or bottom round) has moderate fat levels

Most beef jerky ranges from 80 to 120 calories per ounce, with around 7–12 grams of protein. The fat content varies depending on the cut:

  • Leaner jerky = less fat, fewer calories

  • Jerky made from fattier cuts = richer flavor, higher calories

So is beef jerky fattening? Only if you eat it in huge amounts — just like any concentrated snack. As long as you stick to reasonable servings (1–2 ounces), beef jerky is a satisfying, nutrient-dense snack that fits well into a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when homemade jerky is finished drying?
Bend a strip; it should crack but not snap cleanly. The surface should be dry with no visible moisture.

Can I store jerky at room temperature?
Yes, but keep it in an airtight container away from heat and sunlight, and eat within a week or so after opening.

Does beef jerky spoil?
Eventually, yes. If it smells rancid, feels sticky, or develops mold, throw it out.

Is jerky high in sodium?
Like most cured meats, jerky is higher in sodium, which helps preserve it. Balance your day’s meals if you’re watching salt.

Can I freeze jerky?
Absolutely. Divide it into smaller packs, freeze for up to 6 months, and thaw in the fridge.

The Bottom Line

Beef jerky is a delicious, traditional snack that combines practicality, flavor, and solid nutrition.

  • Dehydrate it for 4–8 hours at 160°F for safety and perfect texture

  • Store it properly to get weeks or even months of shelf life

  • Enjoy it as a protein-rich snack that is not inherently fattening

When you buy high-quality, small-batch jerky made with honest ingredients, you’re choosing a snack that delivers flavor, tradition, and smart nutrition in every bite.

Experience Wisconsin River Meats Jerky

At Wisconsin River Meats, we put pride into every batch of jerky using premium cuts of beef, authentic hardwood smoke, and traditional recipes. Our products are vacuum-sealed for maximum freshness, and crafted in small batches to guarantee the bold, satisfying flavor you expect from true Wisconsin jerky.

Shop our Beef Jerky Collection today and see why quality jerky is worth every penny — and every chew.

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