The North American Meat Institute (NAMI), a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, is calling for National Jerky Day – celebrated annually on June 12^th – to become a daily holiday based on the product’s overwhelming popularity. 

“National Jerky Day was created a number of years ago to celebrate the rich history, immense popularity and nutritional benefits of dried meat snacks,” said Eric Mittenthal, vice president of sustainability at the Meat Institute. “However, due to the incredible growth in product demand, we think it is time for the event to become a daily holiday.”

According to IBISWorld, a research firm that provides reports and analysis of various industries, the revenue for the meat jerky production industry has grown consistently over each of the past five years with revenue growth of $1.3 billion.  Product innovation (new flavors) is cited as the primary driver of this growth.

In recent years, Nielsen studies have shown how consumer spending on meat snacks is second only to potato chips. When it comes to snacks that offer a protein punch, beef jerky is among the highest protein snacks listed in the USDA’s Food Composition Database.

“Jerky is enjoying the perfect storm of consumer trends – more frequent snacking, consumer interest in protein, reduced fat, calories and carbohydrates, minimal ingredients,” Mittenthal added. It is also convenient in that it is lightweight and doesn’t require refrigeration.”

In anticipation of National Jerky Day – whether it remains a single holiday or a 365-day holiday – the Meat Institute is reminding Americans how enjoyable this snack is, even as a Father’s Day gift with this fun, viral video developed with The Beef Checkoff -- https://youtu.be/v89khUJt1ZA.  The organization also is encouraging the use of #NationalJerkyDay on social media.

Facts and nutrition information about beef jerky are available at http://meatpoultrynutrition.org/productcenter/jerky

Source: NAMI