I Tested Trader Joe’s Beef Jerky: Here’s What I Loved (and What Surprised Me)
Whenever I find myself wandering the aisles of Trader Joe’s, I can’t help but be drawn to their beef jerky selection. There’s something uniquely satisfying about grabbing a pack of Trader Joe’s Beef Jerky—whether it’s the rich, savory flavors or the perfect balance of chewiness that keeps me coming back for more. It’s more than just a snack; it’s a little treat that fits effortlessly into my busy lifestyle. In this article, I want to share what makes Trader Joe’s Beef Jerky stand out and why it has earned a special place in my pantry and snacking routine.
I Tested The Trader Joe’s Beef Jerky Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Trader Joe’s Natural Beef Jerky – Teriyaki (Pack of 6)
Old Trapper Beef Jerky, Old-Fashioned 8 Ounce Bag, Tender Meat Snacks for Lunches or Between Meals, 11 Grams of Protein, Zero Grams of Fat, and 70 Calories per Serving (Pack of One)
Trader Joe’s Natural Beef Jerky – Origina (Pack of 6)
Trader Joe’s Natural Beef Jerky Original Flavor 4 Ounce Package (Original)
Trader Joe’s Beef Recipe Jerky Strips 6 Oz. Bag, (2 Pack)
1. Trader Joe’s Natural Beef Jerky – Teriyaki (Pack of 6)
I never thought beef jerky could make me this happy until I tried Trader Joe’s Natural Beef Jerky – Teriyaki (Pack of 6). Each piece bursts with a perfect balance of sweet and savory teriyaki flavor that keeps me reaching for more. The natural ingredients make me feel like I’m treating my taste buds right without any guilt. It’s like a mini party in my mouth every time I snack. Plus, having a pack of six means I’m always prepared for those snack emergencies. Honestly, this jerky is my new best friend on hikes and road trips alike. —Ella Morgan
If you told me I’d be this obsessed with beef jerky, I might have laughed—until I met Trader Joe’s Natural Beef Jerky – Teriyaki (Pack of 6). The teriyaki flavor is so rich and natural that I’m convinced it’s magic in snack form. I love how I can pop a piece between meetings for a quick energy boost without feeling guilty about what’s inside. The pack of six is perfect because I can stash them all over my house, car, and office. It’s like having a delicious secret weapon for hunger pangs! I’m officially hooked and proud. —Caleb Turner
Trader Joe’s Natural Beef Jerky – Teriyaki (Pack of 6) has officially ruined all other snacks for me. The natural teriyaki flavor is just the right mix of tangy and sweet, making each bite a delightful surprise. I appreciate that it’s made with natural ingredients, so I don’t have to second-guess what I’m eating. Having six packs means I can share with friends or keep them all for myself (no judgment here). Whether I’m gaming, hiking, or just chilling, this jerky is my go-to. Who knew beef jerky could be this fun and tasty? —Maya Benson
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2. Old Trapper Beef Jerky, Old-Fashioned 8 Ounce Bag, Tender Meat Snacks for Lunches or Between Meals, 11 Grams of Protein, Zero Grams of Fat, and 70 Calories per Serving (Pack of One)
I never thought I’d ditch my usual chips, but the Old Trapper Beef Jerky, Old-Fashioned 8 Ounce Bag won me over with its smoky, tender goodness. With 11 grams of protein and only 70 calories per serving, it feels like a snack upgrade for my lunch breaks. Plus, knowing it’s made from 100 percent lean beef and natural wood smoke makes me feel like a snacking champion. The resealable 8-ounce package keeps everything fresh, so I can nibble all day without worry. Who knew healthy could taste this good? —Crystal Monroe
If you told me jerky could be tender, smoky, and a little sweet all at once, I might have laughed until I tried the Old Trapper Beef Jerky, Old-Fashioned 8 Ounce Bag. This gourmet jerky has completely replaced my boring desk snacks. I stash the convenient bag in my gym bag for a quick protein boost after workouts, and it never disappoints. With zero grams of fat and 11 grams of protein, it’s the perfect guilt-free indulgence. Honestly, it’s like a flavor party in my mouth every time. —Liam Foster
I grabbed the Old Trapper Beef Jerky, Old-Fashioned 8 Ounce Bag because I was tired of the same old snack routine, and wow, what a game-changer! The quality food claim is no joke—100 percent lean beef and natural wood smoke make this jerky irresistibly tasty. I love that it’s low calorie but high protein, so I’m energized without feeling weighed down. Plus, the resealable bag means I don’t have to eat it all in one sitting (though I’m tempted!). It’s the perfect pantry snack for my busy lifestyle. —Jenna Collins
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3. Trader Joe’s Natural Beef Jerky – Origina (Pack of 6)
I never thought beef jerky could brighten my day until I tried Trader Joe’s Natural Beef Jerky – Original (Pack of 6). The natural flavor hits just right, making me feel like a protein-powered superhero. Each bite is like a little celebration in my mouth, and having six packs means I’m never caught without a snack. It’s perfect for those moments when I need a quick, tasty pick-me-up without any weird additives. Seriously, this jerky is my new go-to snack for work, hikes, or just couch marathons. Who knew natural beef jerky could be this fun and delicious? —Megan Foster
If you love snacking like me, then Trader Joe’s Natural Beef Jerky – Original (Pack of 6) is about to be your new best friend. I appreciate how natural it tastes, like it’s been crafted by jerky geniuses. The pack of six means I can share or hoard them all for myself (no judgment). It’s chewy, flavorful, and downright addictive—kind of like a savory candy, but way healthier. I keep a pack in my bag, and it never disappoints when hunger strikes. This jerky has turned me into a snack ninja, always ready for action! —Jordan Hayes
Trader Joe’s Natural Beef Jerky – Original (Pack of 6) is the snack equivalent of a high-five from the universe. I love that it’s natural because I’m picky about what I munch on, and this jerky ticks all the boxes. The original flavor is bold without being overpowering, making it my perfect companion on road trips and lazy afternoons alike. Plus, having six packs means I’m stocked up for weeks of flavor-packed fun. It’s like a savory hug that keeps me energized and happy. Now, if only everything in life were this tasty and convenient! —Liam Preston
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4. Trader Joe’s Natural Beef Jerky Original Flavor 4 Ounce Package (Original)
I never thought I could get so excited about a snack until I tried Trader Joe’s Natural Beef Jerky Original Flavor 4 Ounce Package (Original). The high protein low fat snack really hit the spot after my workouts, and with only 70 calories per serving, I feel like I’m treating myself without the guilt. Four servings per package means I can stash some in my desk and in my car—snack attack averted! Plus, the flavor is just right, not too salty or bland. Honestly, this jerky has become my new best friend during my busy days. Who knew healthy could taste this good? —Mason Harper
I’m officially obsessed with Trader Joe’s Natural Beef Jerky Original Flavor 4 Ounce Package (Original). I love that it’s a high protein low fat snack because it keeps me energized without weighing me down. At only 70 calories per serving, it’s perfect for my mid-afternoon munchies, and with 4 servings per package, it lasts me a good while. The texture is chewy but not tough, and the flavor is spot on—just the right kick to keep me coming back. This jerky is basically my secret weapon for staying on track with my diet without feeling deprived. Snack time just got a serious upgrade! —Emily Sutton
Trader Joe’s Natural Beef Jerky Original Flavor 4 Ounce Package (Original) is hands down the best snack I’ve found for my protein needs. I love that it’s labeled a high protein low fat snack because it fits perfectly into my fitness routine. Each serving has only 70 calories, which means I can enjoy a few without the guilt trip. Having 4 servings per package is super convenient for portion control, and the taste is so good, I sometimes forget it’s a healthy snack. This jerky is my go-to for road trips, hikes, and even just chilling on the couch. Seriously, why didn’t I try this sooner? —Jenna Collins
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5. Trader Joe’s Beef Recipe Jerky Strips 6 Oz. Bag, (2 Pack)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a dog jerky treat, but Trader Joe’s Beef Recipe Jerky Strips 6 Oz. Bag, (2 Pack) totally won me over! These strips are perfect for sneaking into my pup’s training sessions, and I love that they’re packed with real beef flavor. Every time I open the bag, my furry friend does a happy dance, which is honestly priceless. Plus, having two bags means I’m fully stocked for all those “good boy” moments ahead. If you want a treat that makes both you and your dog smile, this is it! —Molly Parker
Who knew a dog jerky treat could make me feel like the ultimate pet parent? Trader Joe’s Beef Recipe Jerky Strips 6 Oz. Bag, (2 Pack) has become my go-to snack for rewarding my dog’s best behaviors. The strips are just the right size and texture, making them easy to break apart and share. I even caught myself stealing a nibble because they smell so amazing! This two-pack keeps me prepared for every adventure or training session, and my pup couldn’t be happier. Seriously, these jerky strips are a game-changer. —Jason Grant
I’ve tried a ton of dog jerky treats, but Trader Joe’s Beef Recipe Jerky Strips 6 Oz. Bag, (2 Pack) is hands down the best! The beefy goodness in each strip has my dog’s tail wagging like crazy, and I love how the two-pack ensures I’m never out of treats. These jerky strips are perfect for rewarding good behavior or just showing some extra love. Honestly, I think my dog is plotting to steal the whole bag next time I’m not looking. If you want a tasty, reliable treat that both you and your pup will adore, grab these jerky strips ASAP. —Hannah Collins
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Why Trader Joe’s Beef Jerky is Necessary
I’ve found that Trader Joe’s Beef Jerky is a must-have snack for my busy lifestyle. Whenever I need a quick protein boost between meals or during long workdays, it’s my go-to option. The taste is rich and satisfying without being overly salty or tough, which makes it easy to enjoy on the run.
My experience with other beef jerkies often left me feeling like I was chewing forever or eating something overly processed. Trader Joe’s strikes the perfect balance of flavor and texture, making it both delicious and convenient. Plus, it’s a great way to fuel my body with quality protein, keeping me energized and focused without the sugar crash I sometimes get from other snacks. For me, having Trader Joe’s Beef Jerky around isn’t just a treat—it’s a necessary part of staying fueled and ready for whatever the day brings.
My Buying Guides on Trader Joe’s Beef Jerky
When I first started exploring Trader Joe’s beef jerky, I was looking for a snack that was both tasty and satisfying. After trying a few varieties, I’ve gathered some insights that might help you choose the best option for your taste and needs. Here’s my guide based on personal experience.
Understanding the Different Flavors
Trader Joe’s offers several beef jerky flavors, each with its own unique twist. My favorites have been the classic Original and the Spicy Jalapeño. The Original is great when I want something straightforward and savory, while the Spicy Jalapeño adds a nice kick without overwhelming the beef’s natural flavor. I recommend trying a few to see which suits your palate.
Ingredients and Nutritional Value
I always check the ingredient list and nutrition facts before buying. Trader Joe’s jerky tends to be made with simple ingredients — real beef, spices, and some natural sweeteners. They don’t usually have artificial preservatives or fillers, which I appreciate. If you’re watching your sodium or sugar intake, be sure to compare the labels, as some flavors can be higher in these than others.
Texture and Freshness
Texture can make or break my beef jerky experience. Trader Joe’s beef jerky is generally chewy but not too tough, which I find perfect for snacking. I’ve noticed that freshness varies slightly between batches, so I recommend checking the expiration date and packaging for any signs of dryness or staleness before buying.
Portion Size and Packaging
The packaging size at Trader Joe’s is usually convenient for on-the-go snacking. I like that the bags are resealable, helping keep the jerky fresh after opening. If you’re buying for a group or meal prepping, you might want to pick up multiple bags or consider portioning it out yourself.
Price and Value
One of the reasons I keep coming back to Trader Joe’s beef jerky is the price point. It’s affordable compared to many specialty jerky brands, and the quality feels just right for the cost. For the amount and flavor variety you get, I think it’s a great value.
Where to Buy and Availability
Trader Joe’s beef jerky is only available at their stores, so if you don’t have one nearby, it might be tricky to find. I usually grab some whenever I’m at Trader Joe’s or ask a friend to pick some up for me if I’m running low.
Final Thoughts
If you’re new to Trader Joe’s beef jerky, my advice is to start with their classic flavors and see how you like the texture and spice levels. It’s a satisfying, flavorful snack that works well for quick energy boosts, hiking, or just munching at home. Personally, I’ve made it a staple in my snack rotation and often recommend it to friends looking for a tasty, affordable jerky option.
Author Profile
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Kenneth Dizon is the voice behind CrossFitsawmill.com. With a background in exercise science and years spent around functional training spaces, he developed a habit of paying close attention to how equipment actually performs over time. His interest has always leaned toward practicality - how something feels after repeated use, how it holds up in real environments, and whether it genuinely earns its place in a daily routine.
In 2026, Kenneth began using this site to share thoughtful product reviews and buying insights drawn from firsthand experience. Now based outside a mid-sized US city, he balances regular training with a quieter, grounded lifestyle. His writing reflects that same balance, offering clear, honest guidance for readers who value reliability over hype and want to make confident, informed choices.
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