Different styles of beef jerky from around the world
Jerky might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word food or travel but it is something that is popular around the world.
Beef jerky is a type of cured meat that is usually made from beef or sometimes turkey. Jerky is a popular snack in many parts of the world especially in the United States but you can find beef jerky in many parts of the world.
Here is a look at the different styles of beef jerky that you can find around the world.
Beef Jerky in the United States
By far one of the biggest producers of beef jerky, they also have the biggest variety in terms of styles and flavours. As of 2022, in the US there are currently 197 Meat Jerky Production businesses which is a rise of 2.9% from 2021.
Companies such as Jack Links, Slim Jim, Oberto, Pemmican still lead the way, however there are many new “craft” jerky companies on the rise. Companies such as Thrive, Three Jerks, Wild Bills and Country Archer.
Popular meat used for jerky in the US.
- Beef
- Chicken
- Fish (Salmon)
- Turkey Jerky
- Ostrich Jerky
- Alligator Jerky
- Bison Jerky
Beef Jerky in South Africa
Whilst beef jerky does exist in South Africa, the most common form of dried meat is that of Biltong (see whats the difference between jerky and biltong). In South Africa, they make Biltong from a wide range of different meats including:
- Beef
- Kudu
- Springbok
- Wildebeest
- Ostrich
Beef Jerky in Australia
Australia is very similar to the US in terms of meat used, however Australia does have a few unique animals used for beef jerky. The most common by far is Beef, however the popular kangaroo is also gaining popularity.
- Beef
- Pork
- Kangaroo
- Emu
- Crocodile
Beef Jerky in Europe
Beef jerky is fast gaining popularity across Europe with new companies starting every year. Whilst there is your usual jerky made from beef, there are some more exotic meats used such as:
- Reindeer
- Paleo
- Elk
- Codfish,
- Wild Boar
- Bear
Beef Jerky in Asia
The style of beef jerky in many Asian countries is quite different to the traditional jerky found in the west. Pork is often used and is processed with large amounts of sugar into flat sheets that produce a more sugary/candy style snack.