Should Jerky Be Refrigerated?

Jerky is a lightweight, dried meat product that is a handy food for backpackers, campers and outdoor sports enthusiasts. It requires no refrigeration. Jerky can be made from almost any lean meat, including beef, pork, venison or smoked turkey breast. ... Freezing will not eliminate bacteria from the meat.

Does jerky go bad if not refrigerated?

Unopened beef jerky is sealed in a vacuum pack and will last for up to 1 year in a dry and dark pantry at normal room temperature. Refrigerating beef jerky after opening is optional but advisable. Beef jerky left open and exposed to warm, moist or sunlit conditions will reduce its consumption time.

What happens if you don't refrigerate beef jerky after opening?

Everything You Need to Know. Unopened beef jerky does not require refrigeration. Once a package has been opened, however, the moisture level of the jerky determines if refrigeration is required. Jerky with a high moisture level is not shelf-stable when exposed to oxygen and requires refrigeration.