Exploring the Nutritional Impact: How Many Calories are Hiding in your Favorite Jerky Snacks?
As a snack enthusiast, you might find yourself wondering about the nutritional value of your favorite jerky. The tasty, protein-packed snack has seen a surge in popularity, but how many calories are hiding in your favorite jerky snacks? Let’s take a deep dive into the nutritional information of various jerkies, focusing on their calorie content.
Table of Contents
- Calories in Beef Jerky
- Calories in Turkey Jerky
- Calories in Bison Jerky
- Calories in Homemade Jerky
- The Best Jerky Recipes
Calories in Beef Jerky
Arguably the most common jerky, beef jerky does a fantastic job of balancing taste with nutrition. A 1-ounce serving of beef jerky averages about 116 calories. This varies based on the brand and flavor, as certain seasonings and marinades can add more sugar and thus, more calories.
| Brand | Calories per ounce |
|---|---|
| Jack Link’s | 80 |
| Oberto | 90 |
| Krave | 90 |
Beef Jerky: A Lean Protein Source
Moreover, beef jerky proves to be a good source of lean protein, providing about 9 grams per ounce. The protein makes it a particularly fulfilling snack, perfect for hiking trips, long car rides, or even just an afternoon pick-me-up.
Calories in Turkey Jerky
Turkey jerky is another popular choice for those who prefer poultry. It tends to be slightly lower in calories than beef, with a 1-ounce serving averaging about 100 calories.
| Brand | Calories per ounce |
|---|---|
| Jack Link’s | 70 |
| Wild Bill’s | 80 |
| Perky Jerky | 80 |
Turkey Jerky: A Lower Fat Option
Turkey jerky is a great lower fat option, typically containing less than 1 gram of fat per ounce while still providing around 11 grams of protein.
Calories in Bison Jerky
For a slightly more exotic jerky, bison is a great option. A 1-ounce serving remains consistent with beef and turkey jerky at around 100 calories.
Calories in Homemade Jerky
The calorie content of homemade jerky varies significantly according to the type of meat and seasonings used. Typically, you can expect a 1-ounce serving to contain between 90-130 calories for most homemade jerkies. But be mindful, certain recipes can sneak in extra calories through the addition of honey, sugar, or other calorie-dense ingredients.
You can find some of the best jerky recipes at best jerky recipes which provide not just detailed instructions but also calorie counts.
The Best Jerky Recipes
If you’re looking to experiment with making your own jerky at home, there are a multitude of ingredients and flavors to experiment with. Regardless of whether you prefer traditional or more exotic tastes, the right recipe can make it easy to create delicious and nutritious jerky. Just remember to be mindful of the nutritional impact, keeping an eye on calorie content, to ensure that your snack stays on the healthy side.
By understanding the nutritional content of your favorite jerky snacks, you’re becoming a more informed snack consumer. Enjoy those satisfying beef, turkey