Imagine a world where your snacks are not only delicious but also good for you and the planet. That’s the promise of natural beef jerky. But with so many brands and claims out there, how do you pick the truly “natural” one? It can feel like a treasure hunt, sifting through confusing labels and wondering what’s really in that bag of jerky.
Choosing the right natural beef jerky can be tough. You want a tasty, satisfying snack, but you also worry about artificial ingredients, preservatives, and where the meat comes from. You might be tired of jerky that tastes too processed or leaves you feeling guilty about what you’re eating. This post is here to help you cut through the noise.
By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly what to look for when buying natural beef jerky. We’ll explore what “natural” really means in the jerky world, highlight the key ingredients to seek out (and avoid!), and share tips for finding jerky that tastes amazing and aligns with your values. Get ready to discover your new favorite guilt-free snack!
Top Natural Beef Jerky Recommendations
No. 1
Tillamook Country Smoker Real Hardwood Smoked Beef Jerky, Old Fashioned, 10 Ounce
- Beef Jerky the Old Fashioned Way: We start with 100 percent premium beef, season it with real pronounceable ingredients you could find in your pantry, and slow smoke it over real hardwood
- Perfect Protein On the Go: With 10 grams of protein per serving, our artfully cured, premium beef jerky makes for a perfect portable protein snack anytime to keep you satisfied and energized on the go
- Shop Our Whole Range: We make a wide variety of jerky and meat sticks, including Keto Friendly Zero Sugar, Old Fashioned, Teriyaki, Pepperoni, Spicy Jalapeño, Sweet and Spicy, Pepper, and more
- Crafted by the Best: We use only the best beef, pork, and seasonings fresh from the farm; Smoking our meat sticks over real hardwood gives it an unparalleled taste; No shortcuts, just fire and smoke and patience
- Smoked in Oregon: For over 4 decades, we’ve been making mouth watering smokehouse snacks, the kind you can only get when you mix hard work, simple ingredients and real hardwood smoke
$11.23
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No. 2
Grazly Beef Brisket Slab - Steakhouse Quality, 5 oz Bag
- GRAZLY BEEF BRISKET SLABS: Grazly Beef Brisket Slabs are made from grass-fed, regeneratively raised beef, offering a natural and wholesome snack. These slabs contain no additives or preservatives, allowing the flavor of the beef to shine through. The combination of tender brisket meat with a rich texture creates an enjoyable snack experience for any beef lover.
- STEAKHOUSE QUALITY: Brisket Slabs are premium beef that come in a convenient single-pack 5oz bag, equivalent to 1 pound of raw meat. Crafted from the same high-grade cuts found in top steakhouses, every bite delivers rich, bold flavor you'd expect from a fine dining experience. Perfect for on-the-go snacking without compromising on quality.
- MADE WITH 2 INGREDIENTS: Our brisket slabs are made with just two ingredients: 100% grass-fed beef and microplastic-free spring salt. This minimalist approach allows you to savor the natural flavor of beef without any unnecessary additives. The spring salt enhances the beef's flavor, creating a savory, balanced taste. These slabs provide a clean and satisfying snack that you can feel good about enjoying.
- TENDER AND RICH TEXTURE: These jerky slabs offer a unique combination of tender, juicy brisket with a rich, buttery, velvety, and fatty edge. Complete cross sections of brisket in every piece (no random bits), creating a satisfying melt-in-your-mouth experience. The balance between the soft, buttery center and savory exterior provides full-bodied flavor, making these slabs a delightful treat for snacking or enjoying at home.
- PROTEIN-RICH SNACK: These slabs are a great choice for anyone looking to increase their protein intake. Each serving provides a substantial amount, offering a filling and flavorful way to enjoy beef. Whether you’re snacking or adding them to your meals, these slabs offer a simple and convenient way to incorporate more protein into your daily routine, helping you stay energized and satisfied all day long.
No. 3
People's Choice Beef Jerky - Sugar Free, 16g Protein - Original 16 oz Bag
- THE ORIGINAL REAL DEAL: Old fashioned beef jerky made from thick cut whole muscle strips. Simply seasoned and slow dried for a dry, chewy bite with bold flavor and no sugar or sweetness added.
- DRY CHEWY TEXTURE: Crafted for those who prefer a rugged, steak like snack. This zero sugar beef jerky is firm and satisfying, releasing rich savory notes the longer you chew.
- ZERO CARB PROTEIN: Each serving delivers 16 g protein with 0 g sugar and 0 g carbs. A smart keto jerky option for paleo and low carb lifestyles that need convenient, high protein fuel.
- CLEAN SIMPLE INGREDIENTS: Made with beef, water, sea salt, and spices. No preservatives and no MSG. Gluten free, soy free, nut free, and dairy free for straightforward snacking.
- MADE IN USA: Prepared in small batches using time tested drying methods. Shelf stable and ready for travel, work, or outdoor adventures when you need a dependable high protein snack.
SaleNo. 4
Chomps Original Beef, Grass-Fed & Finished, 10ct, Protein Snack Stick
- Total Snackage: Each satisfying 1.15 oz Original Beef Jerky snack stick is made with high quality, real ingredients, has 10 grams of protein, zero sugar, and just 100 calories. The perfect snack you can feel good about anytime, anywhere.
- Convenience Meets Quality: Our commitment to quality shines through with 100% grass-fed and finished beef. Whether you're hitting the trails, at the office, or simply need a quick boost of energy between meals, Chomps offers the perfect blend of convenience and quality.
- Bold Flavors: Our Original beef meat sticks feature the same savory taste that made us popular: slightly smokey, slightly spicy.
- Nutrition your taste buds understand: Nourishing snack that's as friendly to your body as your taste buds. Keto Friendly, Whole30 approved, Paleo, Certified Gluten Free, Non-GMO, plus free from the top 9 allergens.
- As a minority, family-owned and operated healthy snacking brand, Chomps is made from the highest-quality proteins with no hidden, harmful ingredients. Our mission is to inspire, educate, and fuel our community with accessible, real food that doesn't compromise on taste.
No. 5
Old Trapper Beef Jerky, Old-Fashioned 8 Ounce Bag, Tender Meat Snacks for Lunches or Between Meals, 11 Grams of Protein, Zero Grams of Fat, and 70 Calories per Serving (Pack of One)
- SMART SNACK: Drop those chips and crackers; Beef jerky is a better snack food with 11 grams of protein and 70 calories per serving
- DELICIOUS: Tender, smoky, and just a little sweet, this is gourmet jerky you'll love to snack on
- QUALITY FOOD: Made with 100 percent lean beef, quality ingredients, and natural wood smoke
- CONVENIENT: Perfect pantry snacks; Stash bags in your glove box, gym bag, or at the office
- PERFECT SIZE: A resealable 8-ounce package means your jerky stays fresh longer
$14.35
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No. 6
Tillamook Country Smoker Zero Sugar Original Beef Jerky Sticks, 6.5 Oz, 14g Protein, Real Hardwood Slow-Smoked, High Protein, Low Carb Meat Snacks, Keto-Friendly, 0g Sugar & Total Carbs
- ZERO SUGAR ORIGINAL FLAVOR: Slow-smoked over real hardwood, this Original flavor Beef Jerky delivers a rich, savory taste with 0g sugar, 0g total carbs, and 14g protein per serving. Crafted from fine cuts of 100% beef for satisfying snacking during busy workdays, travel, workouts, or between meals
- KETO-FRIENDLY HIGH PROTEIN SNACK: Designed for keto and sugar-conscious individuals, this protein-packed, low carb snack helps satisfy midday cravings between meals without any artificial sweeteners. A reliable snack option for gym sessions, office breaks, road trips, outdoor plans, or everyday schedules
- MADE WITH 100% FINE BEEF: Handcrafted using fine beef for tender texture and rich flavor, making it convenient for busy schedules, on-the-go munching, post-workout, or whenever hunger strikes. Traditional smoking and seasoning methods bring bold character to every bite without the unnecessary additives
- NO ARTIFICIAL INGREDIENTS: These gluten free protein snacks for adults contain no artificial ingredients. With 0g of trans fat and straightforward preparation methods, this jerky delivers taste and texture for diverse dietary preferences. No shortcuts, just fire and smoke and patience!
- ON THE GO SNACKS FOR ACTIVE LIFESTYLES: Keep this Tillamook Beef Jerky pack in your gym bags, backpacks, desk drawers, lunch boxes, or car consoles for quick protein anytime hunger strikes. Suitable for hiking, commuting, bringing it to the park, travel, late-night cravings, or on-the-go snacking anytime
$12.97
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No. 7
Clean Jerky Co. Salt & Pepper Beef Jerky, Zero Sugar, High Protein, 3oz
- OLD FASHIONED & FULL OF PROTEIN:100% Premium DRY Beef Jerky made the old-fashioned way—perfect for fans of high protein snacks and the Carnivore lifestyle. Our master craftsmen use a slow, meticulous drying process to lock in bold flavor and a perfectly chewy texture. This is what real, clean protein tastes like.
- ONLY THREE INGREDIENTS & VERY DRY BY DESIGN: Our Small Batch Old Fashioned Dry Aged Beef Jerky contains just three ingredients: beef, salt, and pepper. That’s it—no sugar, no fillers, no junk. This is a sugar-free beef jerky intentionally made very dry for those who appreciate authentic snacks for adults with nothing to hide.
- HEALTHY SNACKS FOR ADULTS, MADE IN THE USA: Crafted with care in the USA using premium, locally sourced beef when possible. Most jerky is packed with junk just to boost weight—we don’t do that. Every ounce of our jerky is pure beef, making it one of the best healthy snacks for adults who want real nutrition without compromise.
- SIMPLY SEASONED, NOTHING ARTIFICIAL: Seasoned to perfection with just salt and pepper—this beef jerky is a tribute to simplicity. No MSG, No Sugar, No Nitrates, No BS. Just clean, high protein snacks that fuel your day without the additives.
- OUR 6-STAR CUSTOMER GUARANTEE: We stand behind our jerky with pride and transparency. If you’re not satisfied, we offer a hassle-free refund. We're not happy until you are—because that’s the clean jerky way.
No. 8
Tillamook Country Smoker Real Hardwood Smoked Beef Jerky, Honey Glazed, 10 Ounce
- Honey Glazed Beef Jerky: We like to call Honey Glazed our "Goldilocks" flavor; Not too sweet, not too savory, just right; Made with premium beef, season it with real ingredients and slow smoked over real hardwood
- Perfect Protein On the Go: With 10 grams of protein per serving, our artfully cured, premium beef jerky makes for a perfect portable protein snack anytime to keep you satisfied and energized on the go
- Shop Our Whole Range: We make a wide variety of jerky and meat sticks, including Keto Friendly Zero Sugar, Old Fashioned, Teriyaki, Pepperoni, Spicy Jalapeño, Sweet and Spicy, Pepper, and more
- Crafted by the Best: We use only the best beef, pork, and seasonings fresh from the farm; Smoking our meat sticks over real hardwood gives it an unparalleled taste; No shortcuts, just fire and smoke and patience
- Smoked in Oregon: For over 4 decades, we’ve been making mouth watering smokehouse snacks, the kind you can only get when you mix hard work, simple ingredients and real hardwood smoke
$11.23
Buy on Amazon
Your Guide to Delicious Natural Beef Jerky
Looking for a tasty, healthy snack? Natural beef jerky is a fantastic choice. It’s packed with protein and has a satisfying chew. This guide will help you pick the best jerky for your taste buds.
What to Look for: Key Features
When you’re shopping for natural beef jerky, keep these important things in mind.
1. Ingredients Matter
- Simple Ingredients: The best natural jerky has a short ingredient list. Look for beef, salt, and natural spices. Avoid jerky with a lot of artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
- No Added Sugars or Syrups: Many jerkies add sugar. Natural options usually have less sugar, or they use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup in small amounts.
2. Beef Quality
- Grass-Fed Beef: This is a big deal for natural jerky. Grass-fed beef comes from cows that ate grass and plants their whole lives. It can have a richer flavor and more good fats.
- Lean Cuts: Jerky is made from lean beef cuts. This means less fat. Good jerky will be made from cuts like round or sirloin.
3. Processing and Curing
- Natural Curing: Look for jerky that is cured using natural methods, not artificial ones. This often means using salt and sometimes natural smoke.
- Drying Method: Jerky is dried to remove moisture. Some is air-dried, while others use ovens. Both can be good, but air-dried can sometimes have a more intense flavor.
What’s Inside: Important Materials
The main thing in beef jerky is, of course, beef!
- Beef: This is the star. The quality of the beef, like whether it’s grass-fed, makes a difference.
- Salt: Salt is used to preserve the jerky and add flavor.
- Spices and Seasonings: These give jerky its different tastes. Natural spices include things like pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Some jerky might also use natural flavorings like liquid smoke.
Making it Great (or Not So Great): Factors Affecting Quality
Lots of things change how good your jerky is.
What Makes it Better
- High-Quality Beef: Using good beef, especially grass-fed, makes the jerky taste better and can be healthier.
- Careful Seasoning: When the spices are just right, the jerky is delicious.
- Proper Drying: Jerky needs to be dried just enough. Too dry, and it’s hard to chew. Not dry enough, and it spoils faster.
What Can Make it Worse
- Artificial Additives: Lots of chemicals can make jerky taste fake and aren’t good for you.
- Fatty Cuts: If the jerky has too much fat, it can be greasy and not as enjoyable.
- Poor Drying: If it’s not dried correctly, it can be tough or not last long.
Enjoying Your Jerky: User Experience and Use Cases
Beef jerky is super versatile.
- On-the-Go Snack: It’s perfect for busy days. Keep some in your bag for a quick protein boost.
- Hiking and Camping: Jerky is lightweight and doesn’t need to be kept cold, making it ideal for outdoor adventures.
- Post-Workout Fuel: The protein in jerky helps your muscles recover after exercise.
- Lunchbox Addition: Add a piece of jerky to your lunch for extra flavor and protein.
- Sharing: It’s a great snack to share with friends or family.
Frequently Asked Questions about Natural Beef Jerky
Q: What makes beef jerky “natural”?
A: Natural beef jerky uses simple, real ingredients. It avoids artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, and often added sugars. It focuses on beef, salt, and natural spices.
Q: Is grass-fed beef better for jerky?
A: Yes, grass-fed beef can be better. It often has a richer flavor and a better mix of healthy fats compared to beef from cows fed grains.
Q: How should I store natural beef jerky?
A: You can usually store unopened jerky at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Once opened, it’s best to store it in an airtight container or bag, and some people prefer to keep it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh longer.
Q: Can I make my own natural beef jerky?
A: Absolutely! Making your own jerky is a great way to control the ingredients. You can choose your favorite cuts of beef and your preferred natural seasonings.
Q: What are common natural spices used in jerky?
A: Common natural spices include black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and chili powder. Some might also use herbs like rosemary or thyme.
Q: Why is the ingredient list important for natural jerky?
A: A short ingredient list with familiar items like beef, salt, and spices tells you the jerky is truly natural. Long lists with chemical names usually mean it’s not as natural.
Q: How can I tell if jerky is too tough?
A: Jerky should have a good chew, but it shouldn’t be so tough that it’s hard to bite or tear. If you struggle to chew it, it might be over-dried.
Q: Does natural jerky have less sodium?
A: Not always. Salt is a key ingredient for preserving jerky, so even natural jerky can have a good amount of sodium. Check the nutrition label if sodium is a concern.
Q: Can I eat beef jerky if I’m vegetarian or vegan?
A: No, beef jerky is made from beef, so it is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans. There are plant-based jerky alternatives available, though.
Q: What’s the difference between jerky and biltong?
A: Both are dried meats, but they are made differently. Jerky is often marinated and then dried, while biltong is typically seasoned and then air-dried. Biltong is usually less chewy than jerky.