National Jerky Day
June 12, Thursday
Origin of the holiday
National Jerky Day was officially established in 2012 with the support of the American Association of Meat Processors and Jack Link’s, one of the largest jerky producers. The holiday quickly gained popularity among snack lovers and outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
Goals of the holiday:
* Raise awareness of the nutritional value of jerky
* Celebrate the historical importance of drying as a method of food preservation
* Promote the culture of natural and high-protein snacks
* Inspire experimentation with different flavors and meat types
What is jerky?
Jerky is meat that has been cut into thin strips, marinated, and then dried or dehydrated. It can be made from various types of meat, including:
* Beef
* Turkey
* Pork
* Chicken
* Game meats (such as venison or bison)
* Plant-based alternatives (for vegetarians and vegans)
Advantages of jerky:
* High in protein
* Easy to store and transport
* No need for refrigeration
* Wide range of flavors: from classic to spicy, sweet, and smoked
How is National Jerky Day celebrated?
Jerky fans celebrate the day in many ways:
* Buy or make their own jerky
* Try new flavors and recipes
* Share snacks with friends, at the office, or outdoors
* Post photos and reviews on social media using hashtags #JerkyDay and #NationalJerkyDay
* Attend tastings or themed events, if available in local stores
Interesting facts about jerky:
* The word "jerky" comes from the Quechua word "ch’arki", meaning "dried meat"
* Meat drying was used by Indigenous peoples of the Americas long before refrigeration
* Jerky was a popular food among travelers, soldiers, and hunters
* Modern technology allows jerky to be made with minimal preservatives and additives
Conclusion
National Jerky Day is not just a day to enjoy a tasty snack but also a reminder of ancient food preservation methods. It’s a chance to appreciate a nutritious treat and perhaps discover new flavors. A perfect moment to celebrate the fusion of tradition and modern food culture.