National Jerky Day is celebrated annually on June 12th in the United States. It is a day to honor and appreciate jerky, a popular and flavorful snack made from dried, seasoned meat. This day is dedicated to recognizing jerky’s rich history, its role as a convenient and nutritious food source, and its enduring popularity among various cultures and people.

What is Jerky?

Jerky refers to lean strips of meat that have been trimmed of fat, marinated with seasonings, and dried to preserve them. While beef jerky is the most common type, jerky can also be made from other meats such as chicken, turkey, pork, venison, bison, and even exotic meats like alligator or kangaroo. The drying process traditionally involved sun drying, smoking, or air drying, but modern jerky is often prepared using dehydrators or ovens.

History of Jerky

Jerky has a long history dating back to ancient civilizations. Drying meat was a key preservation technique before the advent of refrigeration. Early indigenous peoples in the Americas, such as the Inca, were known for making a form of jerky called "ch'arki" (from which the word "jerky" is derived). This dried meat could be stored for long periods, making it an essential food source for survival, especially during long journeys or food shortages.

Explorers, pioneers, and early settlers in North America also relied on jerky because of its portability, shelf life, and ability to provide essential nutrients. Jerky continued to evolve over time, with new flavors, spices, and production techniques adding to its variety.

Significance of National Jerky Day

National Jerky Day celebrates jerky not just as a snack but as a versatile food with historical and cultural significance. It recognizes jerky’s contribution to survival, exploration, and innovation in food preservation. The day also highlights jerky’s modern-day appeal as a high-protein, low-fat snack, enjoyed by outdoor enthusiasts, athletes, travelers, and anyone looking for a quick and nutritious bite.

How to Celebrate National Jerky Day

1. Try Different Jerky Varieties: On National Jerky Day, people are encouraged to explore different types of jerky beyond just beef. This could include turkey jerky, venison jerky, or even more exotic options like bison or ostrich jerky. Some companies offer jerky made from plant-based ingredients for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet.

2. Make Your Own Jerky: For those who enjoy cooking, National Jerky Day can be an opportunity to try making homemade jerky. This involves marinating strips of meat in a flavorful mixture of spices, then drying them using a dehydrator or an oven. Making jerky at home allows you to customize the flavor and texture to your preferences.

3. Jerky Tasting Parties: Some jerky enthusiasts use the day to host tasting parties, where they gather friends and family to sample a variety of jerky flavors and types. This can be a fun way to compare different brands or homemade jerky recipes.

4. Learn About Jerky’s History: National Jerky Day is also an excellent time to dive into the history of jerky and how it has been made by different cultures. This could involve researching the traditional methods used by Native Americans or reading about the use of jerky by early American pioneers.

5. Share on Social Media: Many jerky lovers take to social media on National Jerky Day to share their favorite types of jerky, recipes, or memories. Hashtags like #NationalJerkyDay or #JerkyLovers are often used to connect with other fans of the snack.

Nutritional Benefits of Jerky

Jerky is valued for being a high-protein, low-fat snack, making it popular among athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and those on low-carb or high-protein diets. Here are some of its key nutritional benefits:

• High in Protein: A small serving of jerky packs a substantial amount of protein, which helps in muscle repair and growth.
• Low in Fat: Jerky is typically made from lean cuts of meat, making it lower in fat compared to other snacks.
• Portable: Jerky is easy to store and carry, making it ideal for road trips, hikes, or quick snacks on the go.
• Long Shelf Life: Due to the drying process, jerky has a long shelf life and doesn’t require refrigeration, making it convenient for emergency food supplies or long travels.

Fun Facts about Jerky

• Different Cultures, Different Jerky: Many cultures have their own version of jerky. In South Africa, a similar dried meat snack is called biltong, while in Turkey, dried meat is known as pastirma.
• High-Altitude Origin: Jerky has roots in high-altitude regions, where the air is naturally dry and aided in the drying process.
• Astronaut Food: Jerky is often included in the rations of astronauts because of its lightweight, high nutritional value, and long shelf life.
• Survival Food: Historically, jerky was a key survival food for explorers and pioneers because it could be carried in large quantities without spoiling.

Modern Jerky Industry

The jerky industry has expanded significantly in recent years, with new flavors, ingredients, and production methods emerging. The snack has moved beyond traditional beef jerky to include more health-conscious and gourmet options, like:

• Low-sodium or sugar-free jerky for those with dietary restrictions.
• Organic and grass-fed jerky, focusing on sustainable and high-quality meat sources.
• Flavored jerky, with options like teriyaki, BBQ, or spicy sriracha jerky gaining popularity.

The rising popularity of plant-based diets has also led to the development of plant-based jerky, typically made from mushrooms, soy, or seitan. This allows vegetarians and vegans to enjoy the texture and flavor of jerky without meat.

Conclusion

National Jerky Day on June 12th is a fun and flavorful celebration of a snack that has deep historical roots and has grown into a modern-day favorite. Whether you’re trying new types of jerky, making your own, or learning about its rich history, this day offers a chance to appreciate the versatility and enduring appeal of jerky.