The meat curing process is the first step in the production of dried meat. To consider that the meat is cured, it is important to add sodium nitrate or the most common sodium nitrite. Sodium nitrite is responsible for the distinctive flavor and color of dried meat and also prevents bacteria. While jerky is packed with health benefits, it also has its downsides.
Due to the healing process, it is high in sodium, with 443 milligrams in one serving (approximately 18% of the recommended daily total). Dry meat is generally high in sodium. A 1-ounce serving can contain nearly 20% of the recommended daily sodium limit for adults. According to the American Heart Association, nine out of 10 Americans consume too much sodium, which can increase water retention and cause bloating, swelling and weight gain.
The organization also states that, over time, excess sodium can increase the risk of various health conditions, including heart enlargement, high blood pressure, osteoporosis and kidney stones. Jerky and jerky are almost the same thing. The only difference is that jerky often has added ingredients such as salt, condiments and liquid marinades, while jerky is just meat that has been dried. Beef jerky, on the other hand, dates back to the ancient Incas, who prepared a jerky sandwich called ch'arki.
If you're up for a project, try making your own jerky so you know exactly what ingredients are used. Biltong and beef jerky are jerky sandwiches that are nutrient-dense, packed with protein, and great for snacking on the go. When evaluating any packaged food, including jerky, the first and most important thing to consider is the list of ingredients. They have recalled their dried meat, alleging possible contamination with the Salmonella bacteria, which causes one million foodborne illnesses in the United States every year.
Salmonella can survive in beef if it isn't cooked to a minimum temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Adams detailed on his site the many ways in which jerky is advertised as a manly product, citing a bouquet of edible jerky touted as a possible Valentine's Day gift for a man. Beef jerky, which is portable, dirt-free, super rich in protein and easily accessible, whether in a practical store or in a supermarket, became one of the best options.
In addition to being a good source of lean protein, beef jerky is rich in iron, folic acid, calcium and vitamins A and C. Let's take an in-depth look at how jerky combines with other snacks, supplements and meal replacements. The American Cancer Society recommends limiting your intake of red and processed meats, such as jerky. Those looking for an excellent source of natural protein and a possible alternative to whey protein should consider healthy beef jerky.
A large piece of jerky has approximately 82 calories, 2.2 grams of carbohydrates, 5.1 grams of fat and 6.6 grams of protein. According to research by the World Resources Institute (through Climate Central), beef production is very inefficient because only 1 percent of the food that livestock consumes is converted into calories that people consume when eating beef.