Why is Beef Jerky So Expensive? — The Reason Behind the Price
If you’re a fan of beef jerky, you know that it can be pretty expensive.
A quick trip to the store can leave you wondering why is beef jerky so expensive?
On average, a single ounce of beef jerky costs about $2.08. That might not seem like much, but when you consider that a typical bag contains around 3 ounces, the price can start to add up quickly.
There are a few reasons why beef jerky is so expensive. Some of these factors include the cost of beef, the process of making jerky, and the packaging.
The Cost of Beef
One of the biggest reasons why beef jerky is so expensive is because raw beef is a costly commodity. The price of beef has been on the rise in recent years due to a variety of factors, including droughts, increased global demand, inflation, and disease.
All of these factors have contributed to the price of beef reaching an all-time high in 2015. The cost of a pound of ground beef reached $5.17, while the price of a steak hit $9.28 per pound.
The Process of Making Jerky
Another reason why beef jerky is so expensive is the process of making it. Jerky is a dried and cured meat that has been around for centuries.
The process of making beef jerky is labor-intensive and requires special equipment. First, the beef must be trimmed and cut into thin strips. Then, it is marinated in a mixture of spices, salt, and sugar.
After the beef has been marinated, it is placed on racks and dried in a dehydrator or smoker. This process can take up to 24 hours. Finally, the jerky is packaged and sold.
The High-Quality Ingredients
When you purchase high-quality beef jerky, you are paying for high-quality ingredients. The beef that is used to make jerky is typically lean and free of fat. This means that it is a healthier option than other snack foods, such as chips or candy.
In addition, the spices and seasonings used in the marinade give beef jerky a unique flavor that you won’t find in other snacks.
You also get what you pay for, high-quality beef jerky is expensive but they’re alternatives. Although still expensive, lower-quality jerky bought in bulk can help bring down the cost.
Time & Energy
It takes time and energy to make good beef jerky. The process of trimming, cutting, marinating, and drying the beef strips can take up to 24 hours. This is why beef jerky is more expensive than other snacks that are mass-produced.
The Packaging
Finally, the packaging of finished jerky also contributes to the high cost. Beef jerky is typically packaged in small bags or containers, which can add to the price.
In addition, the packaging must be airtight to keep the jerky fresh. This means that beef jerky is often packaged in vacuum-sealed bags, which can add to the cost.
Is Beef Jerky Fairly Priced?
Now that you know some of the reasons why beef jerky is so expensive, you can decide for yourself if it is fairly priced.
If you’re looking for a healthy snack option, beef jerky is a good choice. The high-quality ingredients and lack of preservatives make it a healthier option than other snacks.
In addition, the time and energy that goes into making beef jerky mean that it is a more expensive snack than mass-produced options.
Is Beef Jerky Worth the Price?
Beef jerky is a salty, delicious, and healthy treat that has been around for centuries. It’s made by drying out beef to preserve it and can last for months without refrigeration. The beef jerky-making process is simple, but the price tag isn’t.
The final decision of whether or not beef jerky is worth the price is up to you. If you’re looking for a healthy snack option that is high in protein and low in fat, then beef jerky may be worth the price.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a cheaper snack option, there are plenty of mass-produced snacks that are available.
Is Making Beef Jerky Cheaper than Buying it?
You might be surprised to learn that making beef jerky at home is actually cheaper than buying it at the store. The cost of the beef, spices and other ingredients needed to make beef jerky is less than the price of a commercial beef jerky product.
The biggest expense when making beef jerky is the electric dehydrator, which can cost around $100. However, if you plan on making beef jerky on a regular basis, the dehydration process can be a bit time-consuming so an electric dehydrator will quickly pay for itself, isn’t the food technology amazing these days!
They’re also at home beef jerky-making kits which can be rather fun and affordable!
How to Make Beef Jerky
Making the best beef jerky is actually quite simple. All you need is some lean beef, a few spices, and a dehydrator.
Start by trimming the fat off of your beef. The leaner the beef, the better the jerky will be. Next, cut the beef into strips that are about 1/4-inch thick.
Then, mix together your crazy spices in a bowl. The jerky recipes for some popular spice combinations for beef jerky include:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
If you want to use a different recipe they offer premade spice kits and there are a huge variety of jerky recipes, teriyaki sauce is a popular one too!
Once your spices are mixed together, coat each strip of beef in the spice mixture. Make sure that each strip is evenly coated.
Then, place the beef strips on the dehydrator racks. Set the dehydrator to 155 degrees Fahrenheit and let it run for about 4 hours, or until the beef is dry and chewy.
Once the beef jerky is finished, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It will last for several months.
Are There Any Drawbacks?
One potential drawback of beef jerky is that it is high in sodium. If you are on a low-sodium diet, you may want to avoid beef jerky or limit your intake.
Another potential drawback is that beef jerky can be addictive. It’s easy to eat too much beef jerky, and the salty flavor can make you crave more. If you find yourself eating too much beef jerky, it’s best to cut back or stop consuming it altogether.
The final potential drawback is that beef jerky is not always healthy. Some commercial brands of beef jerky are high in sugar and fat. If you’re looking for a nutritious snack option, make sure to check the nutrition label before you buy.
Final Words On The Price of Beef Jerky
Beef jerky is a delicious and healthy snack option that is high in protein and low in fat. It’s also a more expensive option than other snack foods, but the price is justified by the quality of the product.
If you’re looking for a cheaper snack alternative, there are plenty of mass-produced options available. However, if you’re looking for a healthy snack option that is worth the price, beef jerky is a great choice.
What do you think? Is beef jerky worth the price?