Is Jack Link’s Original Beef Jerky Gluten Free? A Full Guide

Are you a fan of beef jerky but have concerns about gluten in your diet?

If so, you may be wondering if Jack Link’s Original Beef Jerky is gluten-free. With so many different brands and flavors of beef jerky on the market, it can be difficult to know which ones are safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Jack Link’s Original Beef Jerky and explore whether or not it is gluten-free. We’ll also provide some helpful tips for reading ingredient labels and finding gluten-free options.

So, grab a bag of beef jerky and let’s dive in!

Is Jack Link’s Original Beef Jerky Gluten Free?

Jack Link’s Original Beef Jerky is a popular snack food that is made from natural beef. The beef used in Jack Link’s products is sourced from New Zealand farmers, and the company has a strict allergen management program in compliance with Australia and New Zealand’s food safety requirements.

When it comes to gluten, the answer is not straightforward. While beef jerky is typically gluten-free as it is simply dehydrated meat, manufacturers often add flavorings and seasonings that may contain gluten.

According to Jack Link’s, many of their flavors are gluten-free, but not all of them. It is important to read the ingredient and nutrition labels carefully to determine if a particular flavor of Jack Link’s beef jerky is gluten-free or not.

It is also worth noting that some states sell locally-made jerky with limited packaging and ingredient information. In these cases, it is important to read the labels with extra attention, especially for anything teriyaki flavored as this is almost always a sign of gluten.

What Is Gluten And Why Do Some People Avoid It?

Gluten is a protein found in most grains, including wheat, barley, and rye. It is commonly used as a binder in many foods, such as bread, cookies, cereals, french fries, gravies, processed lunch meats, pastas, potato chips, corn chips, crackers, hot dogs, soups, and more. Gluten can also be found in over-the-counter and prescription medications as a binder.

Some people avoid gluten because they have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where the ingestion of gluten causes damage to the small intestine. Gluten sensitivity is a condition where people experience symptoms similar to those with celiac disease but do not have the same intestinal damage.

Following a completely gluten-free diet can be difficult and costly because so many common foods contain gluten. For those who need to follow a gluten-free diet, it is important to carefully read labels and understand which ingredients may contain gluten. In the case of beef jerky, it is important to look for flavors that are specifically labeled as gluten-free and to read the ingredient and nutrition labels carefully to determine if a particular brand of beef jerky is gluten-free or not.

Understanding Gluten-free Labeling

Understanding gluten-free labeling is crucial for those with gluten allergies or sensitivities. In the United States, all companies are required by law to declare when a product contains wheat. However, this does not necessarily mean that a product is completely gluten-free.

When looking for gluten-free products, it is important to read the ingredient list carefully. Common ingredients that contain gluten include hydrolyzed wheat protein and Worcestershire sauce. Soy sauce is also a common source of gluten in beef jerky marinades, so it is important to look for gluten-free alternatives like tamari.

If a product is labeled as “gluten-free,” it means that it contains less than 20 parts per million (ppm) of gluten. This is the threshold established by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for products to be labeled as gluten-free.

It is important to note that even if a product is labeled as gluten-free, cross-contamination can still occur during the manufacturing process. This is why it is always recommended to read the label carefully and contact the manufacturer if you have any questions or concerns.

In the case of Jack Link’s Original Beef Jerky, all of their flavors are certified gluten-free, with no added hormones, no added MSG, and no nitrates/nitrites. However, it is still important to check the label for any potential allergens or cross-contamination.

Other Gluten-free Beef Jerky Options

If you are looking for other gluten-free beef jerky options, there are several brands to consider. Country Archer Grass-Fed Beef Jerky is a popular choice, made with grass-fed beef and free from gluten, soy, and dairy. Cattaneo Bros also offers a range of gluten-free and sugar-free jerky options, including a 100% grass-fed beef line.

For those who prefer traditional flavors, People’s Choice Old-Fashioned Beef Jerky is a great option. This gluten-free and soy-free jerky brand is also sugar-free and keto-friendly, with a simple ingredients list of only beef, water, salt, and garlic.

It is important to note that while gluten-free beef jerky options are available, they may come at a higher cost due to the use of gluten-free substitutes such as tamari sauce. However, for those with Celiac Disease or gluten sensitivity, the sacrifice in cost may be worth it to enjoy a delicious and safe snack.

Tips For Finding Gluten-free Snacks On-the-go

For those with celiac disease or a gluten intolerance, finding gluten-free snacks on-the-go can be a challenge. Here are some tips to help you find safe, tasty snacks:

1. Read the labels: Always read the ingredient and nutrition labels carefully before purchasing any snack. Look for keywords like “gluten-free” or “certified gluten-free” to ensure that the product meets your dietary requirements.

2. Stick to simple snacks: Snacks that are made from whole foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds are often naturally gluten-free. These snacks are also healthier and more nutritious than processed snacks.

3. Look for certified gluten-free products: Look for products that are certified gluten-free by organizations like the Gluten-Free Certification Organization (GFCO) or the National Celiac Association (NCA). These certifications indicate that the product has been tested and verified to be gluten-free.

4. Avoid cross-contamination: Be aware of cross-contamination when purchasing snacks from bulk bins or shared equipment. Look for individually packaged snacks or brands that have dedicated gluten-free facilities to minimize the risk of cross-contamination.

5. Try alternative snacks: If you’re having trouble finding safe gluten-free snacks, try alternative snacks like CHOMPS Grass-Fed Beef Sticks, Stryve Air-Dried Beef Slices, or Field Trip Jerky, which are all gluten-free and delicious.

By following these tips, you can easily find safe and tasty gluten-free snacks on-the-go. Don’t let your dietary restrictions limit your snacking options – with a little bit of research and planning, you can enjoy delicious snacks wherever you go.