How long does jerky last?
In the fridge, jerky keeps for 2 to 3 months after opening. In the pantry, it keeps for 12 months from the package date. Once opened, use it within 2 to 3 months. All 2 kinds are below.
12 months
from the package date
2 to 3 months
after opening
2 to 3 months
in the fridge unless noted
By kind
| Kind | Pantry | Fridge | After opening | Freezer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| commercially dried | 12 months | no guideline | 2 to 3 months | no guideline |
| homemade | 1 to 2 months | 1 to 2 months | no guideline | no guideline |
No guideline: USDA gives no time for that place, usually because the food is not stored that way.
Does jerky go bad?
Yes. The fridge time above is the window USDA gives for good quality; after it, jerky may still be safe for a short while but quality drops and spoilage signs start. The date on the package is the maker's quality promise; the times here count from purchase unless marked "from the package date".
Two numbers to keep in mind: a fridge at 40 F (4 C) or below, and no more than 2 hours at room temperature (1 hour above 90 F / 32 C) for anything perishable.
How to tell jerky has gone bad
General signs for meat: shelf stable foods, the group USDA lists jerky under.
- Bulging, dented or rusted cans, especially along the seam
- Jerky that has gone soft, sticky or visibly mouldy
- Hissing or spurting liquid when a can is opened
- Off, sour or rancid smell on opening
- Unusual colour change compared to a fresh package
More on meat: shelf stable foods. The times above are quality guidelines, not safety limits; food that shows these signs goes out regardless of the date.
How long do other meat: shelf stable foods last?
Source: USDA FSIS FoodKeeper dataset (public domain). How we decode the data.