Best Vegan Jerky: 6 Tasty Snacks for On-the-Go

When it comes to snacks, jerky stands tall as the go-to choice for its convenience, portability, and satisfying chewiness. Originally associated with meat, jerky has evolved to become a versatile snack enjoyed by people from all walks of life. From road trips to office desk cravings, jerky has earned its place as a beloved snack. 

But what about those who follow a vegan lifestyle? Fear not, as the rise of vegan jerkies ensures that everyone can partake in the joy of this irresistible snack.

As the demand for plant-based options continues to rise, the snacking industry has responded by offering flavorful and protein-packed snacks that not only satisfy cravings but also align with the ethical choices of the vegan community.

Since then, vegan jerky has come a long way. Crafted from an array of plant-based ingredients like mushrooms, soy, and coconut, these vegan jerkies capture the essence of traditional jerky without compromising on taste or texture.

In this guide, we present to you the 6 best vegan jerky options available, ranging from savory mushroom jerky to plant-based delights, brought to you by some top-notch vegan jerky brands. Let us dive right into our top picks and discover the perfect vegan snack for your next road trip, hike, or afternoon craving.

Louisville Vegan Jerky Co. – Variety Pack

Louisville Vegan Jerky Co. stands out among the top vegan jerky brands, offering a mouthwatering Jerky Variety Pack that showcases the diverse flavors of plant-based jerky. Crafted from king oyster mushrooms and non-GMO soy, these jerkies boast a meaty texture and an umami-rich taste. The pack includes tempting flavors, but the standout is the “Smoked Black Pepper,” which combines the rich umami of soy with the bold kick of black pepper.

This pack of jerkies delights with a perfect balance of sweet and savory notes. The sweetness comes from natural sources, offering guilt-free indulgence.

Best suited for: 

Those who appreciate variety in their snacks and love the smoky and peppery flavors of traditional beef jerky but want a plant-based alternative.

• Diverse flavor options in one pack.
• Crafted from plant-based ingredients.
• Offers a satisfying snack with a meaty texture.

Cons:

• Contains soy, which may not be suitable for those with soy allergies.
• Higher sodium content compared to some other vegan jerkies.
• Limited availability in some local stores.

Noble Jerky – Teriyaki 

Noble Jerky is known for its chewy and flavorful vegan jerky that rivals traditional meat jerky, making it a game-changer in the vegan snacking scene. Their “Teriyaki” flavor is a fan favorite, boasting the perfect balance of sweet and savory with a hint of hickory smoke. 

Noble Jerky’s Teriyaki Jerky offers a delightful twist on traditional beef jerky, with a chewy texture that satisfies your cravings without compromising your vegan values. Besides its natural ingredients, which include vegan evaporated cane sugar and natural seasonings, it also contains non-GMO soy, making it a great source of fiber and protein. 

Best suited for: 

Vegan jerky enthusiasts who crave authentic teriyaki flavor and a chewy, hearty texture in their snack.

Pros:

• Authentic hickory Teriyaki flavor.
• High in protein and fiber.
• Satisfying chewiness reminiscent of traditional beef jerky.

Cons:

• Contains soy and has moderate sodium content.
• The texture might be too chewy for some.
• Limited flavor options compared to other brands. 

Moku Plant-Based Mushroom Jerky – Variety Pack

Moku transformed the humble mushroom into a mighty ingredient, bringing to life its Plant-Based Mushroom Jerky – Variety Pack. It features flavors like original vegan jerky, sweet and spicy, Korean barbecue, and the crowd favorite “Hawaiian Teriyaki,” which offers a delightful fusion of pineapple’s sweetness with the savory umami of teriyaki sauce.

The combination of the mushroom’s distinct, earthy profile and the sweet and savory notes of other ingredients make Moku’s Plant-Based Mushroom Jerky a standout in the vegan snacking world. It is also a great source of plant-based protein, gluten and soy-free, non-GMO, and vegan-friendly. 

Best suited for: 

Adventurous snackers seeking unique flavors in their vegan jerky with the rich and satisfying texture of mushrooms.

Pros:

• Crafted from mushrooms, providing a unique and earthy flavor profile.
• Offers the exclusive Hawaiian teriyaki flavor.
• Good balance of fiber, sugar, and sodium contents.

Cons:

• Contains mushrooms, which may not be suitable for those with mushroom allergies.
• Slightly chewier compared to some other vegan jerkies.

Primal Spirit Vegan Jerky – Most Popular Flavors Pack

The Primal Spirit Vegan Jerky – Most Popular Flavors Pack is a treasure trove of diverse flavors to tantalize your taste buds. It offers an extensive array of vegan jerky options, including Teriyaki, Hickory Smoked, Texas BBQ, Thai Peanut, Hot and Spicy, and Mesquite Lime. 

These jerkies are crafted from seitan, an ingredient known for its true meaty texture. It also makes these vegan jerkies an excellent source of protein. 

Best suited for: 

 Snackers who enjoy classic, intense flavors in their vegan jerky.

Pros:

• Made from seitan, a high-protein plant-based ingredient.
• Features classic bold flavors that many are familiar with.
• Provides a substantial protein boost to keep you energized throughout the day.

Cons:

• Contains gluten (seitan), which may not be suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or allergies.
• Some individuals may find the flavors of these jerkies to be on the intense side, so they might not be ideal for those who prefer milder tastes.

Pan’s Mushroom Jerky – Zesty Thai 

If you are a fan of mushrooms, Pan’s Mushroom Jerky is a must-try. This mushroom-based jerky offers a savory and umami-rich experience. Their “Zesty Thai” flavor combines the earthiness of shiitake mushrooms with the bold flavors of Thai cuisine.

Best suited for: 

Mushroom enthusiasts and those seeking a unique vegan jerky experience.

Pros:

• Made from king oyster mushrooms.
• Unique and exotic flavor from Thai seasoning staples like garlic, onion, lemon peel, cayenne, coriander, basil, paprika, black pepper, and cilantro.
• A great source of protein.
• Contains organic chia seeds, which are an excellent source of fiber. 

Cons:

• Contains mushrooms, making it unsuitable for those with mushroom allergies.
• The texture of mushroom-based jerky can be chewier compared to other plant-based options, which might not appeal to everyone’s palate.
• Some individuals may find the flavors to be quite intense, especially if they are not accustomed to the earthy and savory taste of mushrooms.

It’s Jerky Y’all Plant-Based Jerky – Sea Salt and Pepper

 

It’s Jerky Y’all does not hold back when it comes to flavor, and their Plant-Based Jerky in Sea Salt and Pepper is no exception. While their diverse range of vegan jerky flavors includes classics like “Peppery Texas BBQ” and “Korean BBQ,” the Sea Salt and Pepper variation offers a simpler yet satisfying taste.

Crafted from mung beans, this jerky boasts a delightful balance of sea salt and pepper, creating a savory snacking experience.

Best suited for: 

Discerning flavor enthusiasts who appreciate a more straightforward yet delectable profile in their vegan jerky.

Pros:

• Crafted from mung beans, providing a plant-based protein source that aligns with your dietary choices.
• A great source of protein, making it a satisfying and energizing snack.
• Uses non-GMO whole soybeans and all-natural ingredients with zero transfats or cholesterol.
• Portion of each sale of “It’s Jerky Y’all” supports a cattle ranch-turned vegan sanctuary in Texas that rescues cows. 

Cons:

• Contains legumes (mung beans), which may not be suitable for individuals with legume allergies or sensitivities.
• Some flavors within the It’s Jerky Y’all range can be on the spicier side, so those with sensitive palates should exercise caution when trying certain varieties.

Conclusion

Jerky has solidified its status as a go-to snack for individuals with diverse lifestyles, including those on a plant-based diet. 

Thankfully, the vegan jerky industry has expanded to meet the rising demand for meat jerky alternatives. Now, more brands offer a variety of delectable vegan jerky options for every palate, from those who enjoy the savory goodness of mushroom jerky to those who love the familiar textures of soy-based jerkies.

The six vegan jerky snacks we outlined above not only cater to your taste buds but also align with your ethical choices. 

So, the next time you are on the hunt for a satisfying and guilt-free snack, reach for one of these best vegan jerky options and embark on a flavorful journey that is good for you and the planet. Happy snacking!