How long does jerky last?
Short answer: Jerky (commercially dried) keeps 2–3 months once opened in the fridge and 12 months in the pantry.
Storage chart
| Type | Pantry | Fridge |
|---|---|---|
| commercially dried | 12 months | 2–3 months (after opening) |
| homemade | 1–2 months | 1–2 months |
Fridge at 40°F (4°C) or colder, freezer at 0°F (−18°C). Freezer times are for best quality; food kept frozen stays safe indefinitely.
Keep it longer
Keep raw meat on the bottom shelf in a container so juices can't drip onto other food. Freeze it if you won't cook it within the fridge time.
Common questions
How long does jerky last in the fridge?
2–3 months once opened in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below, according to USDA FoodKeeper data.
How long does jerky last at room temperature?
12 months in a cool, dry pantry.
How can I tell if jerky has gone bad?
Throw it out if you see mold, a slimy texture, an off smell or an odd color. For anything perishable, go by the storage time rather than smell: bacteria that cause food poisoning don't usually change how food looks or smells.
More meat
Source: USDA FoodKeeper data (USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service). Updated 2026-10-13. General information, not medical advice. When in doubt, throw it out.