How to tell if beef jerky is still safe to eat?

Check for the best-by date.

A best-by date is typically located near the bottom seal of the bag. This is a good starting point to evaluate the freshness of the jerky. It's important to note that going past the best-by date does not automatically make the jerky unsafe to consume.

Check for any damage in the packaging.

A damaged package, such as a tear, rip, pinhole, or incorrect seal, may indicate that oxygen and moisture have entered the bag, potentially causing spoilage. This is not a definitive sign of spoilage, but should be considered as a warning.

Inspect the jerky.

Check the appearance of the jerky. Observe its color and any unusual features, such as white spots. Smell it, it should have a clean and savory aroma. The texture should be firm but pliable, not too soft or mushy.

Mold and rancidity are clear indicators that the jerky has spoiled and is no longer safe to eat.

Look for signs of mold, such as furry, powdery, or fuzzy substances in white, green, or gray colors with a spider-web pattern. If unsure, check our guide on identifying mold on beef jerky. In rare cases, a higher fat content in beef jerky can lead to rancidity, which has a spoiled, off odor. If the jerky shows signs of either mold or rancidity, it should be discarded and not consumed. Mold on beef jerky, everything you need to know

If the beef jerky passes the appearance, aroma, and texture tests and shows no signs of mold or rancidity, it is likely safe to eat. However, if you have any concerns or uncertainties, reach out to our customer service team.