Beef jerky is a timeless snack that has satisfied cravings and fueled adventures for centuries. However, traditional beef jerky can be quite high in sodium, which can pose health concerns for many individuals. Fortunately, low sodium beef jerky offers a savory solution for those who want to enjoy this protein-packed snack while keeping their sodium intake in check. In this article, we will delve into the world of low sodium beef jerky, discussing its benefits, production, and some tasty options available in the market.
Understanding Sodium and Its Impact
Sodium is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in various bodily functions, such as regulating blood pressure and maintaining fluid balance. However, excessive sodium intake can lead to health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and kidney issues. The average American consumes far more sodium than necessary, largely due to the prevalence of processed and fast foods.
Regular jerky, often cured with high-sodium ingredients like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and table salt, can contribute significantly to one's daily sodium intake. For individuals looking to reduce their sodium consumption, low sodium beef jerky is a healthier alternative. Although there may not be many beef jerky brands in the marketplace that offer the right jerky you may be looking for, we are fortunately not like many beef jerky brands. Here at People's Choice we offer a wide variety of high-protein, gluten-free jerky flavors with low sodium levels. Ranging anywhere from our typical jerky to our beef sticks, there's a protein-rich snack for everyone to love.
Benefits of Low Sodium Beef Jerky
1. Heart Health
Reducing sodium intake can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. Low sodium beef jerky provides a way to enjoy this snack without compromising heart health.
2. Kidney Function
Excess sodium can strain the kidneys, potentially leading to kidney problems. Choosing low sodium options can ease the burden on these vital organs.
3. Dietary Flexibility
Low sodium beef jerky accommodates dietary restrictions, such as those followed by people with hypertension, kidney disease, or those simply striving for a lower-sodium diet.
Producing Low Sodium Beef Jerky
Creating low sodium beef jerky requires a few key adjustments to the traditional jerky-making process:
1. Ingredient Selection
Low sodium beef jerky recipes use alternative flavorings and seasonings to replace high-sodium ingredients like soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Some of these include different herbs, spices, and natural seasonings like garlic, onion, and paprika which can add depth and flavor.
2. Sodium Reduction
To lower the overall sodium content, jerky makers may use salt substitutes, which typically contain potassium chloride. This helps maintain the savory taste without the excessive sodium.
3. Lean Beef Cuts
Lean cuts of beef are often chosen to reduce the overall fat content of the jerky. These cuts not only make for a healthier snack but also help balance the flavors.
4. Marinating
Marinating beef in low sodium sauces or flavorings for an extended period allows the meat to absorb the flavors, ensuring a delicious final product.
Top Low Sodium Beef Jerky
1. Cowboy Peppered
Extra thick cuts of 100% American Beef are seasoned with a robust medley of natural spices featuring coarse black pepper and savory Worcestershire sauce then slow cooked for a minimum of five hours. The cowboy cuts of jerky enhance the rich meat flavor for a thick jerky with a great chew.
The boldness of black pepper is married with slight sweetness of sugar and the richness of Worcestershire sauce that brings this thick cut beef jerky home.
Shop on People’s Choice Beef Jerky: Cowboy Peppered - $6.99 - $28.99
Per 1 Ounce Serving
- Calories: 90
- Total Fat: 2.5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Sodium: 135 mg
- Carbohydrate: 9g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 9g
2. Sweet Chili Habanero
Extra thick cuts of 100% American Beef are seasoned with a rich medley of spices including potent habanero peppers, soaked in pineapple juice, then slow cooked for a minimum of five hours.
A blend of tropical sweetness and heat starts with a kiss of sweetness then leaves you with a pleasant burn.
Shop on People’s Choice Beef Jerky: Sweet Chili Habanero - $6.99 - $28.99
Per 1 Ounce Serving
- Calories: 90
- Total Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Carbohydrate: 0g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 9g
3. Garlic Ginger
Extra thick cuts of 100% American Beef are seasoned with an Asian-inspired blend of natural spices featuring ginger powder and savory soy sauce, then slow cooked for a minimum of five hours. The sweetness of the Teriyaki sauce and the bite of ginger powder enhances the rich meat flavor for a thick jerky with a great chew.
A garlicky, savory-sweet blend that reaches balanced perfection with a hint of ginger bite.
Shop on Peoples’ Choice Beef Jerky: Garlic Ginger - $6.99 - $28.99
Per 1 Ounce Serving
- Calories: 80
- Total Fat: 2.5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Sodium: 290 mg
- Carbohydrate: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 10g
4. Naked Jerky Crisps
Introducing a crispy, crunchy, snackable twist on our traditional style jerky. Made with high-quality, 100% American Beef, Jerky Crisps are lightly salted and packed with 40g of protein for an airy, guilt-free bite.
We slice our premium beef jerky extra thin and dry it out for a luxuriously long time to give it a satisfying crunch. The extra dry style means no added preservatives, sugars, or…anything! Just beef, water, and sea salt.
This is a light and airy jerky snack, modernized in texture yet handcrafted in an old-time style. We strip it down to the basics with just 3 simple ingredients (beef, water, salt) to enhance the natural smoke flavor and meatiness in each bite.
Shop on People’s Choice Beef Jerky: Jerky Crisps - $8.75
Per 1 Ounce Serving
- Calories: 210
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Carbohydrate: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 40g
Bottom Line
Low sodium beef jerky is a flavorful, protein-packed snack that caters to individuals looking to reduce their sodium intake without sacrificing taste. By carefully selecting ingredients and using alternative flavorings, jerky makers have created a delicious and healthy option for jerky enthusiasts. So, whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or simply seeking a satisfying, low-sodium snack, consider adding low sodium beef jerky, or more specifically, our sugar-free beef jerky, to your list of go-to treats that satisfy both your taste buds and your health-conscious lifestyle.
