Common Cuisine |

The truth is, I love beef jerky. We’ll be traveling this summer so I got to thinking about foods that travel well. Beef jerky is a great source of protein that doesn’t have to be refrigerated, so it will be a natural choice for our trip.

In an attempt to get jerky with less fat at a lower cost, I have been making some at home this week. In the process of trying to get the best nutritional punch out of homemade jerky, I have been learning all about the science, key ingredients, and some additional interesting information.
Unfortunately all jerky has a little ingredient in it, called sodium nitrite, that is not so good for you. It is an ingredient common to all processed meats, such as hot dogs, sausage, and pepperoni (all of which I also enjoy on occasion). So everything not good about jerky is true about those meats as well.

But I also have it on good authority that life is meant to be enjoyed. We can enjoy these salty pleasures, as well as our favorite sweet treats, as long as we keep one key idea in mind: moderation. Be sure to keep hydrated, make little choices to keep your body active, and make natural foods the major part of your diet. And then, when the urge strikes, indulge in the jerky with a clear conscience.