High Protein Beef Jerky

Let's cut to it — beef jerky is one of the most protein-dense snacks on the planet. Every bag in this collection delivers a minimum of 12 grams of protein per ounce, and our top-tier picks push well past 16g and even 20g per ounce. That's more protein per bite than most protein bars, shakes, or trail mixes — without the added sugars, fillers, or mystery ingredients.

Because jerky is made from dried, lean cuts of beef, the dehydration process concentrates the protein content, giving you more fuel in less food. It's shelf-stable, fits in a gym bag or desk drawer, and doesn't need refrigeration. Whether you're hitting the gym, hiking a trail, or just powering through a busy workday, high protein beef jerky keeps you full, focused, and fueled — no blender required.

We set the bar at 12g per ounce for a reason. Anything less and you're just snacking. Anything in this collection? You're building.

The protein content in beef jerky varies by brand, cut of meat, and how it's made. Most mass-market jerky falls in the 7–10g per ounce range. Everything in our High Protein collection clears 12g per ounce — and the best options go much higher. Here's how the different jerky types typically stack up:

The more a piece of jerky is dried, the more concentrated the protein becomes. That's why carne seca and biltong dominate the top of the chart — they're leaner, drier, and deliver the most protein per bite. But plenty of premium smoked jerkies clear the 12g mark too, especially from brands using lean cuts and minimal sugar.

Pro tip: Always check the protein per ounce, not just per serving. Serving sizes vary from brand to brand (some list 1 oz, others 2 oz), so protein-per-ounce is the best way to compare apples to apples — or in our case, jerky to jerky. Every product in this collection has been vetted at the per-ounce level, so you know exactly what you're getting.

We've already done the hardest part — every product in this collection clears 12g of protein per ounce. But if you want to go even deeper, here's what separates good high-protein jerky from great:

1. Check protein per ounce, not just per serving. Serving sizes aren't standardized across brands. A brand listing "14g of protein" on a 2 oz serving isn't the same as 14g per 1 oz. We've already vetted everything in this collection at the per-ounce level — but if you're shopping elsewhere, always do the math.
2. Go sugar-free when possible. Added sugars take up space that could be protein. Many teriyaki and sweet-glazed jerkies trade protein density for sugar content. If protein is your priority, lean toward savory, zero-sugar options — or browse our Sugar-Free Beef Jerky collection for the best of both worlds.
3. Look for lean cuts. The best high protein jerky comes from lean cuts like top round, eye of round, or flank steak. Less fat means more room for protein per serving.
4. Consider the drying method. Drier jerky = more concentrated protein. That's why air-dried options like carne seca and biltong tend to dominate the 16g+ tier — they've had more moisture removed, packing more protein into every ounce.
5. Read the ingredient list. The shorter, the better. Quality high protein jerky doesn't need a chemistry degree to understand. Real beef, real spices, real flavor.

Want the absolute highest protein? Head straight to our 16g+ Club section for the top of the food chain.

A family-run California operation since 1947, Cattaneo Bros. makes some of the cleanest, highest-protein jerky on the market. Their Range line is crafted from 100% grass-fed beef with zero sugar, zero carbs, and up to 14g of protein per ounce. No fillers, no shortcuts — just lean, premium beef that earns its spot in the collection.

Vacadillos carne seca is a protein machine — delivering up to 15g of protein per ounce with zero sugar and bold Mexican-inspired flavors like Chile Lime, Habanero, and Scorpion Pepper. Air-dried and thinly sliced, it's essentially a high-protein meat chip. If you're chasing the highest protein-per-ounce in the game, Vacadillos belongs in your rotation.

Founded in 1929 in Downtown LA, People's Choice handcrafts old-fashioned jerky and carne seca with all-natural ingredients. Their Carne Seca line pushes 16g of protein per ounce with zero sugar, zero carbs, and no artificial additives. A fourth-generation favorite for a reason.

One of the best things about jerky as a protein source? It fits almost every diet on the planet. Here's how to match your jerky to your goals:

Keto & Low-Carb
If you're counting carbs, you need jerky with zero sugar and minimal additives. Our Sugar-Free Beef Jerky collection has 85+ keto-approved options that pair high protein with zero carbs. Brands like Vacadillos, Cattaneo Bros., and Mojave Jerky Co. are top picks for keto snackers.

Gym & Fitness
Pre-workout or post-workout, beef jerky delivers fast-absorbing, high-quality protein with the amino acids your muscles need for recovery. It's portable, shelf-stable, and doesn't require mixing or refrigeration — making it one of the best gym snacks that isn't a shake or a bar.

Paleo & Whole30
Most of our high protein jerky options are made with simple, whole-food ingredients — real beef, sea salt, spices. No soy, no gluten, no junk. Check out our Grass-Fed Beef Jerky collection for the cleanest options.

Weight Loss & Calorie Counting
Protein keeps you fuller, longer. A 1 oz serving of jerky packs serious protein in under 100 calories, making it one of the most efficient snacks for managing hunger between meals. For the leanest options, try our Low-Fat Beef Jerky picks.

On-the-Go / Outdoor Adventures
Hiking, camping, road trips, travel days — jerky is the original adventure snack. Lightweight, portable, shelf-stable, and protein-packed. Throw a few bags in your pack and you're good. No cooler required.