Beef jerky has been a delicious and reliable source of food for hundreds of years. It offers a wide variety of flavours, ranging from sweet & spicy to teriyaki. With such a range of options, there’s something for everyone.

But what is the history of beef jerky? Who invented it and where does it come from? Let’s take a journey back in time to discover the history of beef jerky, from its humble beginnings to its current popularity.

The origins of beef jerky

The history of beef jerky goes back centuries, long before it became popular in the United States. In fact, the roots of dried meat can be traced to South America, where the indigenous people of Peru developed a method of preserving meat called "ch'arki." This Quechua word, which means "dried and salted meat," is the precursor to modern beef jerky. The dry climate of the Andes allowed them to dry meat in the sun and preserve it for long periods, an essential method for survival in harsh conditions.

When was beef jerky invented?

Although ch'arki from the 1500s is considered one of the earliest forms of dried meat, the practice of drying meat to preserve it dates back to even earlier times. The ancient Egyptians used similar techniques to dry various types of meat and products under the sun. They understood the importance of preserving food for times when fresh products were scarce.

The introduction of beef jerky to the United States

Beef jerky made its way into American culture in the early 19th century, around 1820, when cowboys traveling long distances with their cattle began using it as a reliable source of food. They would dry their meat in the sun, smoke it, or salt it to make it lighter and easier to transport. Dried meat became an essential, protein-packed snack, providing the food and energy they needed for their exhausting journeys.

From the Andes to the American frontier, the history of beef jerky is a testament to the ingenuity of cultures throughout the ages, all of whom sought ways to preserve meat to ensure their survival and comfort.