How Many Calories Are in a Beef Stick? Everything You Need to Know

Beef sticks have become a go-to snack for busy parents, outdoor enthusiasts, athletes, and anyone who wants a high-protein bite on the move. They’re flavorful, convenient, and satisfying — but if you’re watching your nutrition, you might wonder: how many calories are in a beef stick?

At Wisconsin River Meats, we believe in transparency when it comes to what’s in your food. Let’s break down the calories, nutrients, and factors that affect the nutritional profile of a beef stick so you can snack smarter and enjoy every bite with confidence.

What Is a Beef Stick?

A beef stick is a fully cooked, cured meat snack made from ground beef mixed with seasonings, then stuffed into a casing and smoked. Unlike jerky, beef sticks retain more moisture, giving them a tender, juicy bite and a deeper smoky flavor.

Because they’re portioned into individual sticks, they’re easy to pack, store, and enjoy anytime.

Calories in a Typical Beef Stick

On average, a standard one-ounce beef stick contains between 100 and 150 calories per stick. The calorie count depends on:

  • The fat content of the beef used

  • The size of the stick

  • The added ingredients, such as cheese or sugar

  • Whether pork or other meats are blended in

At Wisconsin River Meats, our classic 1-ounce beef sticks generally deliver about 110–120 calories each, with 7–9 grams of protein and minimal carbs, making them a great fit for a low-carb or keto diet.

Nutrition Profile of a Beef Stick

Here’s what you can typically expect in a high-quality, all-beef stick:

  • Calories: 100–150 per stick

  • Protein: 7–9 grams

  • Fat: 7–10 grams (varies by beef blend)

  • Carbohydrates: usually under 2 grams

  • Sodium: 250–450 mg (due to the curing process)

These numbers can shift if the beef stick includes cheese, sweet glazes, or fillers, so always check the label if you’re monitoring your intake.

Are Beef Sticks a Healthy Snack?

When made with high-quality beef and simple, traditional seasonings, beef sticks can absolutely be a healthy snack. They provide:

  • Complete protein to help you feel full and support muscle recovery

  • Iron for healthy oxygen transport

  • Zinc for immune function

  • B vitamins to help convert food into energy

Of course, because beef sticks are a cured product, they do contain sodium to keep them shelf-stable and safe. Balance your sodium intake throughout the day if you include beef sticks regularly.

How to Choose the Healthiest Beef Sticks

Not all beef sticks are created equal. Here’s what to look for on the label:

  • 100% beef or a beef-and-pork blend you trust

  • Natural spices rather than artificial flavorings

  • Low or no added sugar

  • Minimal fillers or preservatives

  • Protein-rich — ideally 7 grams or more per serving

At Wisconsin River Meats, our handcrafted beef sticks are made from premium cuts of beef, seasoned with a traditional blend of spices, and slowly smoked over natural hardwood for authentic flavor. We never use artificial preservatives or unnecessary fillers, giving you a snack you can feel good about.

Beef Sticks for Different Lifestyles

Thanks to their macronutrient profile, beef sticks fit a variety of nutrition goals:

  • Keto or low-carb: very low in carbohydrates

  • Gluten-free: naturally gluten-free (always verify the label)

  • High-protein diets: supports muscle maintenance

  • Paleo: choose clean-label beef sticks without dairy or soy

  • Family snacks: portion-controlled and easy to pack in lunchboxes

Whether you’re hiking, camping, recovering after a workout, or simply craving something savory, beef sticks offer a convenient way to stay fueled.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beef Stick Calories

How many calories are in a 1-ounce beef stick?
Typically about 100–150 calories per stick, depending on the recipe and fat content.

Are beef sticks good for weight loss?
Beef sticks can help with weight loss if used as a satisfying, high-protein snack that prevents overeating later. Just watch portion sizes and sodium.

How many carbs are in a beef stick?
Most high-quality beef sticks have under 2 grams of carbohydrates per stick, making them keto friendly.

Can kids eat beef sticks?
Yes — they’re a great protein-rich snack for kids. Just moderate the amount due to sodium levels, and slice them for younger children to avoid choking hazards.

Do beef sticks need to be refrigerated?
Yes, refrigerate beef sticks after opening, and always store them in a cool, dry place before opening to maintain freshness.

Enjoy Beef Sticks the Smart Way

Beef sticks are more than just a quick snack — they’re a flavorful, protein-rich way to fuel your day. As long as you choose high-quality options made with honest ingredients and moderate your intake, they can absolutely fit into a healthy lifestyle.

At Wisconsin River Meats, we craft our beef sticks in small batches, using premium beef, time-tested spices, and natural hardwood smoke. That’s the difference you can taste — and trust.

Shop our handcrafted beef sticks here and discover why so many people count on us for authentic, traditional Midwestern smoked meats.

If you want, I can help you expand this into a series on “beef sticks vs jerky,” “low-carb beef snacks,” or other snack-focused topics — just let me know!

Back to blog

Leave a comment