Food safety alert: beef jerky out of the refrigerator – how long is too long?
What To Know
- It is a good source of protein and can be enjoyed as a snack or as part of a meal.
- For example, beef jerky that is made with ground beef will spoil more quickly than beef jerky that is made with whole muscle beef.
- However, it is important to note that this is just a general rule and the actual amount of time that beef jerky can sit out will vary depending on the factors listed above.
Beef jerky is a popular snack food that is made from dehydrated beef. It is a good source of protein and can be enjoyed as a snack or as part of a meal. However, how long can beef jerky sit out?
Factors That Affect How Long Beef Jerky Can Sit Out
The following factors can affect how long beef jerky can sit out:
- Temperature: Beef jerky will spoil more quickly at higher temperatures.
- Humidity: Beef jerky will absorb moisture from the air, which can make it spoil more quickly.
- Exposure to light: Beef jerky that is exposed to light will spoil more quickly than beef jerky that is stored in the dark.
- Type of beef jerky: Some types of beef jerky are more perishable than others. For example, beef jerky that is made with ground beef will spoil more quickly than beef jerky that is made with whole muscle beef.
How Long Can Beef Jerky Sit Out?
As a general rule, beef jerky can sit out for up to 2 hours at room temperature. However, it is important to note that this is just a general rule and the actual amount of time that beef jerky can sit out will vary depending on the factors listed above.
If you are unsure whether or not beef jerky is still good to eat, it is always best to err on the side of caution and throw it away.
Signs That Beef Jerky Has Gone Bad
The following are some signs that beef jerky has gone bad:
- Mold: Mold is a sign that beef jerky has spoiled.
- Slime: Slime is another sign that beef jerky has spoiled.
- Off odor: Beef jerky that has gone bad will have an off odor.
- Taste: Beef jerky that has gone bad will taste bad.
How to Store Beef Jerky
The best way to store beef jerky is in a cool, dry place. Beef jerky can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Tips for Keeping Beef Jerky Fresh
The following are some tips for keeping beef jerky fresh:
- Store beef jerky in a cool, dry place.
- Keep beef jerky away from light.
- If you are going to be storing beef jerky for a long period of time, vacuum seal it.
- Eat beef jerky within 2 weeks of opening the package.
Final Note
Beef jerky is a delicious and nutritious snack food. However, it is important to store beef jerky properly to prevent it from spoiling. By following the tips in this article, you can keep your beef jerky fresh for weeks or even months.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: How long can beef jerky sit out at room temperature?
A: Beef jerky can sit out at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
Q: What are some signs that beef jerky has gone bad?
A: Some signs that beef jerky has gone bad include mold, slime, off odor, and taste.
Q: How can I keep beef jerky fresh?
A: You can keep beef jerky fresh by storing it in a cool, dry place, away from light. You can also vacuum seal beef jerky to extend its shelf life.
