National Jerky Day

If you haven’t tried jerky yet, National Jerky Day is a perfect opportunity to experience its rich taste and learn about one of the oldest methods of preserving meat. Dried meat is a unique product that retains the nutrients and energy value of fresh meat while boasting a shelf life of several months.

History

National Jerky Day was established in 2012 by two meat companies with the initial goal of boosting sales. However, the dried meat’s popularity exceeded expectations, and the holiday gradually gained international recognition.

Every year on June 12, people celebrate by reflecting on jerky’s history, discussing its nutritional value, and exploring new recipes.

Interesting Facts

• Dried meat ranks second only to chips in snack popularity.
• The term “jerky” originates from the ancient Inca word “charki,” meaning dried, salted meat. The Spaniards adapted the term, which eventually became “jerky” in English.
• Some Native American tribes still prepare meat using traditional methods, adding dried fruits and solid fats to create a dish called pemmican. This dish is highly nutritious and ideal for travel.
• Jerky can be made from various meats, including turkey, pork, venison, crocodile, chicken, and ostrich.
• NASA added jerky to astronauts’ diets as a source of protein during space missions in the late 20th century.

How to Take Part

Celebrate National Jerky Day by visiting a restaurant that serves dishes featuring jerky. If you enjoy cooking, invite friends over and impress them with creative jerky recipes.

For those with a food dehydrator, try making your own jerky at home. Share your creations on social media using the hashtag #NationalJerkyDay.

Consider joining master classes or following blogs by famous chefs to learn more about incorporating jerky into your culinary repertoire.

When is National Jerky Day in 2025?

National Jerky Day is observed on June 12 each year.

Observations