How Long Food Lasts

Jerky

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.

Food stored constantly at 0 °F will always be safe. Only the quality suffers with lengthy freezer storage.

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.

How to thaw jerky safely

  1. In the refrigerator
  2. In cold water, cook it right after thawing
  3. In the microwave, cook it right after thawing
  4. Cook it from frozen

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.

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

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 verified: October 1, 2026.