Can you freeze jerky?
It depends on the form:
- Commercially dried No
- Commercially dried, opened No
- General guidance Yes · 1-2 months
How long does jerky last in the freezer?
- General guidance1-2 months
Freezer times are for quality; frozen food stays safe.
Your freezer should be around -18°C
A freezer acts as a pause button - food in a freezer won’t go bad and most bacteria cannot grow in it.
Food stored constantly at 0 °F will always be safe. Only the quality suffers with lengthy freezer storage.
How to defrost jerky safely
- In the fridge
- In cold water, cook it straight after defrosting
- In the microwave, cook it straight after defrosting
- Cook it from frozen
You should defrost your food in the fridge so that it doesn’t get too warm
It’s also important to use food within 24 hours after it’s been fully defrosted
There are three safe ways to thaw food: in the refrigerator, in cold water, or in the microwave.
Check the water frequently to be sure it stays cold. Change the water every 30 minutes. After thawing, cook immediately.
It is safe to cook foods from the frozen state. The cooking will take approximately 50% longer than the recommended time for fully thawed or fresh meat and poultry.
After thawing
It’s also important to use food within 24 hours after it’s been fully defrosted
Frequently asked questions
Can you freeze jerky?
It depends on the form: General guidance: 1-2 months.
Sources
We always show the most cautious time among official sources. Last checked: 1 October 2026.
- FoodSafety.gov Cold Food Storage Chart US
- Food Standards Agency - consumer food hygiene guidance GB
- Penn State Extension US
- South Dakota State University Extension US
- Colorado State University Extension US
- National Center for Home Food Preservation US
- North Dakota State University Extension US
- Virginia Cooperative Extension (Virginia Tech) US
- USDA FSIS FoodKeeper data US
- USDA FSIS Safe Food Handling and Preparation US