Beef jerky is a portion of very popular snack food. Its name derives from the Quechua word “ch’arki” meaning dried, salted meat. The snack beef jerky is made from lean beef cuts, which are marinated with different sauces, spices and other additives. Subsequently, it undergoes different processing methods, such as curing, smoking, and drying, before being packaged for sale. Because jerky is considered a snack food, a lot of people wonder if it is a healthy or unhealthy choice. This article testifies if beef jerky is good for you.
Nutritional Benefits
The beef jerky is generally a healthy, nutritious snack. It also delivers small quantities of manganese, molybdenum, and pantothenic acid. Since it is a product that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, it has a better nutritional profile than many other snack foods, and it is ideal for various diets such as low-carbon and paleo diets. It is also high in different minerals, including zinc and iron, which are important for many functions, including immune and energy support. Beef jerky also has a long shelf life, and is compact, making it a great on-the-go option.
The downside of the beef jerky
The beef jerky is a nutritious snack, but it should be eaten in moderation. It is very high in sodium, with a 1-ounce (28-gram) serving that provides approximately 22% of your daily sodium allowance set at 2,300 mg per day. Excessive intake of sodium can harm several aspects of your health, including heart health, blood pressure and risk of strokes. This also makes it inappropriate for specific diets which limit sodium intake.
Also, beef jerky is heavily processed. Numerous studies have demonstrated a connection between high-processed and cured red meats such as beef jerky diets and a higher risk of cancers such as gastrointestinal cancer.
In addition, a recent study found that dried, cured meats such as beef jerky may be contaminated with toxic substances called mycotoxins formed by meat-growing mushrooms. Research has associated mycotoxins with cancer. In short, whilst beef jerky is a healthy snack, it consumes its best in moderation. Most of your diet should come from unprocessed, whole foods.
Bottom Line
Beef jerky is a perfect protein-rich snack food and a decent source of abundant minerals like zinc and iron. However, store-bought products are high in sodium and may be associated with other dangers, so it is better eaten as part of a balanced diet in moderation. Having said that, making your beef jerky personally is easy and can help regulate its sodium content.
Nonetheless, it is always best to have a purchased beef jerky from a retail store that you know and trust. It is vital to keep yourself the most healthy, especially during these days of the pandemic. Doing your research can help you source out the best stores available that provide beef jerky retail.
