Beef jerky is a popular snack for those on-the-go or looking for a protein-packed treat.
But have you ever wondered what a serving size of beef jerky actually looks like?
With so many different brands and flavors on the market, it can be difficult to know how much to eat.
In this article, we’ll explore what 1 oz of beef jerky looks like and how to properly portion out your favorite snack.
So grab a bag of your favorite jerky and let’s dive in!
What Does 1 Oz Of Beef Jerky Look Like?
One serving of beef jerky is typically 1 oz or 28 grams. But what does that actually look like?
Visually, 1 oz of beef jerky is about the size of a deck of cards or a small handful. It may not seem like a lot, but keep in mind that beef jerky is a dense and protein-packed snack.
If you’re unsure about how much 1 oz of beef jerky looks like, it’s always helpful to measure it out with a kitchen scale. This will ensure that you’re getting the correct portion size and not overindulging.
Understanding Serving Sizes
Serving sizes on nutrition labels can often be confusing or misleading. It’s important to understand that the serving size listed on a beef jerky package is not necessarily the recommended amount of food one should eat, but rather the amount of food that the average person consumes during a single eating occasion.
For example, a serving size of 1 oz of beef jerky may only provide 50 calories and 7 grams of protein. However, if you consume multiple servings in one sitting, those calories and protein grams can quickly add up.
To ensure that you’re not overeating, it’s important to pay attention to serving sizes and practice portion control. Measuring out 1 oz servings of beef jerky and storing them in individual snack bags can be a helpful way to prevent overindulging.
It’s also important to note that different products may have different serving sizes. For example, the serving size for individually wrapped beef sticks may be listed as “1 piece” rather than an exact weight measurement. Always check the nutrition label before snacking to ensure that you’re consuming the appropriate portion size.
How To Measure 1 Oz Of Beef Jerky
Measuring out 1 oz of beef jerky is a simple process that can be done using a kitchen scale. First, place a small bowl or container on the scale and press the tare or zero button to reset the weight to zero. Then, carefully add pieces of beef jerky to the container until the weight on the scale reads 1 oz or 28 grams.
If you don’t have a kitchen scale, there are other ways to estimate 1 oz of beef jerky. One method is to count out the number of pieces of beef jerky in a serving size listed on the packaging and divide it by the total weight of the serving size. For example, if the serving size is 28 grams and there are 10 pieces in a serving, each piece would be approximately 2.8 grams or 0.1 oz. You can then count out approximately 10 pieces to get 1 oz of beef jerky.
Another method is to use common household objects as a reference for portion sizes. For example, one ounce of beef jerky is roughly the size of a deck of cards or a small handful. Keep in mind that these methods are not as precise as using a kitchen scale, but can still be helpful in estimating portion sizes.
Different Brands And Flavors: How They Compare
When it comes to beef jerky, there are a variety of brands and flavors to choose from. One popular brand is Country Archer, which prides itself on using 100% grass-fed beef and avoiding preservatives or artificial additives. Their original flavor is also gluten-free thanks to the use of tamari instead of soy sauce. Another brand, Field Trip, also avoids nitrites and nitrates of any kind.
In terms of flavors, the most common options are Teriyaki, Original, and Hot & Spicy. Beef jerky tends to be able to handle stronger, more assertive flavors, while turkey jerky is better suited for milder flavors. However, the differences in flavor and texture ultimately come down to personal preference.
For those looking to reduce their red meat consumption or who have trouble digesting beef, turkey jerky is a great option. It has slightly fewer calories, fat, and protein than beef jerky.
When it comes to other types of jerky, alligator and alpaca are becoming more popular. Alligator meat is high in protein and good monounsaturated fat, while alpaca meat is leaner than beef, pork, or chicken. Both types of jerky are typically made without MSG or other additives.
The Nutritional Value Of 1 Oz Of Beef Jerky
One ounce of beef jerky contains a variety of nutrients that make it a healthy snack option. It has approximately 116 calories, 9.4 grams of protein, 7.3 grams of fat, and 3.1 grams of carbohydrates. Additionally, it contains essential minerals such as zinc, phosphorus, iron, and copper, which are important for immune system support, energy production, and overall health.
Beef jerky is also a good source of vitamin B12, which is essential for proper nerve function and the formation of red blood cells. It also contains choline, an important nutrient for brain health and development.
Compared to other snack foods, beef jerky is low in carbohydrates and high in protein, making it suitable for various diets such as low-carb and paleo diets. It’s also a convenient and portable snack option that can be taken on-the-go.
It’s important to note that the nutritional value of beef jerky may vary depending on the brand and flavor. However, overall it can be considered a nutrient-dense food that provides a variety of health benefits when consumed in moderation.
Tips For Properly Portioning Your Jerky Snack
Here are some tips to help you properly portion your beef jerky snack:
1. Check the nutrition label: Before snacking on beef jerky, check the nutrition label to determine the serving size and how many calories you’ll be consuming. This will help you avoid overeating and ensure that you’re staying within your daily calorie intake.
2. Use a kitchen scale: If you’re unsure about how much 1 oz of beef jerky looks like, use a kitchen scale to measure out the correct portion size. This will help you stay on track with your diet and avoid overeating.
3. Cut your jerky into smaller pieces: If you find it difficult to portion out 1 oz of beef jerky, try cutting it into smaller pieces. This will make it easier to measure out the correct portion size and help you avoid overeating.
4. Pair with other snacks: Beef jerky is a great source of protein, but it’s not very filling on its own. To make it a more satisfying snack, pair it with other snacks like nuts or vegetables.
5. Don’t eat too much at once: While beef jerky is a healthy snack option, it’s important not to overdo it. Eating too much at once can lead to digestive issues and make it difficult to stay within your daily calorie intake. Stick to the recommended serving size of 1 oz per snack.