Yes, jerky does go bad eventually, but unopened commercial jerky lasts up to a year at room temperature when stored in a cool, dry place. Vacuum-sealed packs with preservatives can stay fresh for up to two years. Once opened, it lasts about three days on the counter or 1–2 weeks in the fridge. Freezing it keeps quality intact for a year or more. You’ll find even more helpful storage tips that keep your jerky tasting great longer.
Quick Guide
- Unopened commercial jerky lasts up to 1–2 years when vacuum-sealed and stored in a cool, dry place.
- Once opened, jerky stays fresh for about 3 days at room temperature or 1–2 weeks refrigerated.
- Freezing opened or homemade jerky preserves quality for up to a year or more.
- Homemade jerky should be cooled, sealed airtight, and stored with desiccants for best shelf life.
- Signs of spoilage include off smells, mold, or moisture; always check before consuming.
Shelf Life of Unopened Commercial Jerky
While you might assume jerky lasts forever, unopened commercial jerky typically stays fresh for up to 12 months at room temperature when stored properly.
Vacuum-sealed packs with preservatives can last 1–2 years.
Keep it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
Oxygen absorbers help, and lean meat with low moisture resists spoilage.
Check the manufacturing date—quality peaks within a year.
Using a sealer with double heat seal closures can help maintain vacuum integrity during freezer storage.
Shelf-stable storage is ensured when jerky is kept in vacuum-sealed packaging with minimal exposure to moisture and oxygen.
How Long Opened Jerky Stays Fresh
How long can you keep that bag of jerky open before it goes bad? At room temperature, it stays fresh for about three days—after that, air and moisture take over.
Refrigerate it in a resealable bag or airtight container to extend freshness to 1–2 weeks. Keeping it in an airtight container also helps prevent contamination and spoilage.
For long-term storage, freeze it; vacuum-sealed jerky can last a year or more.
Opened jerky stored in the freezer maintains quality for up to seven months to one year.
Homemade Jerky Storage Guidelines
Once you’ve finished making your homemade jerky, storing it the right way guarantees it stays tasty and safe to eat for as long as possible.
Cool it completely, then use airtight containers like vacuum-sealed bags or mason jars.
Add oxygen absorbers or desiccants, and keep it in a cool, dark place—or freeze it for up to two years.
For extra protection against moisture and odor transfer, choose containers with airtight seals.
Best Practices for Pantry Storage
To keep your jerky fresh and safe in the pantry, start by choosing the right container and controlling the storage environment. Use airtight glass jars or vacuum-sealed bags to block moisture and oxygen. Choose containers with BPA-free silicone gaskets for a tighter seal that helps prevent moisture and air from getting in over time.
Store in a cool, dark place away from heat and sunlight. Add a desiccant pack to absorb excess moisture, and check regularly for condensation or spoilage to maintain quality.
Freezing Jerky for Long-Term Freshness
While your jerky can stay safe at room temperature for months, freezing it’s your best bet for preserving quality over the long haul—especially if you’ve made a big batch or scored a bulk deal.
Vacuum-seal portions, keep your freezer at 0°F or below, and thaw only what you need.
For extra protection against freezer burn, use thicker bags with double-zipper closures to create a more reliable airtight seal.
This way, you’ll maintain flavor, texture, and freshness for up to a year.
Wrapping Up
You now know jerky can go bad, but proper storage makes it last. Unopened, it stays fresh for months; once opened, eat it within a week or two. Homemade jerky spoils faster, so refrigerate or freeze it. Keep your jerky in a cool, dry place, and seal it tight. For long-term freshness, freezing works great. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll enjoy tasty, safe jerky every time.
