Jerky has been around for a very long time in one form or another. Drying meat is one of the best ways to store it for long periods of time. There are even records of the Ancient Egyptians drying meat for storage. Nowadays, jerky is eaten by individuals who are camping, on the go, or just those who love it as a snack. While eating beef jerky is still a popular option as it is high in omega-3, protein, and healthy fats, there are so many other types to choose from that offer various other unique benefits. Fish jerky is a prime example in this regard.
Health Benefits of Fish Jerky
Health benefits are the primary reason fish jerky is increasingly becoming a preferred beef jerky alternative. Following are the top health benefits of fish jerky:
Protein and Other Nutrients
As compared to beef jerky, fish jerky contains 1.5x the protein as well as various other nutrient benefits without the added cost of high saturated fats. Fish jerky provides the body with zinc, iron, potassium, selenium, calcium, and B vitamins. It’s a tasty red meat alternative with significant health benefits.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fats have been found to reduce inflammation, the risk of heart disease, and may even improve brain health and blood pressure. These types of fats are most abundant in oilier fish like trout, mackerel, herring, sardines, tuna, and salmon. As compared to beef jerky, fish jerky contains 0g saturated fat and 30-100x the omega-3 fatty acids. Because of these properties, seafood jerky is considered by many to be a superfood.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is the focus of many nutrition-based discussions. Thanks to its health benefits, it is a priority in health care. Not only does Vitamin D help with calcium absorption into the bones, but it can also prevent muscle spasms and chronic headaches.
Environmental Benefits of Fish Jerky
Fish jerky is also an ideal source of animal protein for the environmentally-conscious consumers. This is because it leaves relatively smaller footprint as opposed to terrestrial livestock. Furthermore, fish jerky also significantly cuts down on food waste. By increasing the shelf life of seafood, this alternative jerky is able to deliver significantly more protein and other nutrients with a lower environmental impact.
The Bottom Line
Fish jerky is the best alternative to beef jerky and red meat in general and choosing it for your diet 2-3 times a week is an ideal choice for everyone as it is healthy in protein. Apart from being a great source of protein, fish jerky also contains low saturated fats and high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, both of which are excellent for heart and brain. Furthermore, it also provides a variety of vitamins and minerals such as iodine, magnesium, selenium, phosphorus, and vitamins A and D. Not to mention it is an ideal choice for environmentally-conscious consumers.
Because of all these benefits, fish jerky is increasingly becoming a preferred snack for many, making it an ideal candidate to become a protein snack of the future.
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