Storing Jerky

[longislandhunter]

I was just wondering after you make a batch of jerky what is the best way to store it? Should you refrigerate it or not?

[AJ]

I put about a dozen strips or so of it in vacuum seal bags and freeze them. I can grab a bag from the deer freezer anytime and its still great tasting.

[buckee]

I agree with AJ. Vacuum pak and freezing is the best way

[Mathews XT Man]

yes definatly!! I actually freeze mine in small tupperware cotainers. Vaccum packed would be better. keep it as air tight as possible after you thaw it too. in the fridge

[longislandhunter]

Thanks for the replies. I make alot of jerky but I usually make small batches that are consumed within a few days. It would be much easier to make larger batches at a time and store it but I really wasn't sure if you could freeze jerky or not without ruining the quality. I always wanted a vacuum sealer to use for the game and fish I harvest and freeze so the other day I broke down and went and bought one. I will take your advice and use it for the jerky also. Thanks again.

[fisherguy]

I freeze in tupperware or freezer bags, but i am sure if you can vacuum packing would be the best way.

[wtnhunt]

Anymore we always just use ziplock freezer bags in the refrigerator. Have also vaccuum sealed them and put them in the freezer, but it never lasts long enough. If you make less than 5 pounds of jerky at at a time and you have kids that eat it like mine do, it is not worth taking the time to vaccuum seal it and freeze it.

[longislandhunter]

Now that I know you can freeze it I plan on making large batches at a time. I usually make around 7 or 8 pounds at a time, and with my kids and me eating it constantly it doesn't last long, but I figure if I make larger batches, perhaps 10-15 lbs at a time and store it that would be great. Matter of fact yesterday I went online and ordered another dehydrator so it will be easier for me make larger batches of jerky. I already have a dehydrator that I use all the time, but I ordered the "Excalibur" 9 tray model and I'm hoping it's as good as the product reviews say it is.