The Benefits of Meat Sticks
- Protein-Rich: Meat sticks are a rich source of protein, containing 5-10 grams of protein per serving. Protein is essential for building and repairing muscles as well as promoting feelings of fullness and satiety [1].
- Low-Carbohydrate and Low-Sugar: With only 0-4 grams of carbohydrates per serving, meat sticks are ideal snacks for those following low-carb diets like Keto or Carnivore Diet. Their minimal carbohydrate content helps prevent blood sugar spikes, which makes meat sticks a better choice than many sugary snacks [2].
- Non-Perishable: Meat sticks are non-perishable and can be safely stored at room temperature, so refrigeration is not required, and they can be used at work, school, traveling, or camping.
- Ready to Eat: Meat sticks require no preparation, and you can simply take one and start eating when you feel hungry.
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These benefits come from the ingredients in meat sticks, i.e., meat, salt, and flavorings, and the method of preparation used to make them.
Learn More: Carnivore vs Keto: Result, Meal Plan and Food List
Meat Sticks Ingredients
- Meat: It’s the main ingredient in meat sticks. Beef and pork are the most commonly used meats, but turkey, chicken, and exotic meats like venison can also be used.
- Salt: It plays an important role in curing and preserving the meat in meat sticks. Both regular salt (sodium chloride) and curing salts like sodium nitrite can be used to enhance the flavor of meat sticks.
- Spices and Seasoning: Various spices and seasonings are added to meat sticks to provide unique flavors. Common spices include black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and chili powder.
- Curing Agents: Meat sticks often contain curing agents like sodium nitrite or potassium nitrate to extend shelf life and prevent bacterial growth. These ingredients also help develop color and flavor.
- Binders: Ingredients like soy protein, wheat protein, or corn syrup are sometimes added as binders to help the meat maintain its shape during the drying process.
- Casing: Meat sticks are stuffed into casings made from natural materials like collagen and cellulose or synthetic materials like plastic. The casing helps the meat stick maintain its cylindrical shape.
So, meat sticks are made with simple ingredients like beef, spices, and seasoning. This combination not only creates a delicious snack but also makes meat sticks a versatile option for different sandwiches and dishes.
Learn More: Can You Eat Turkey Bacon on the Carnivore Diet?
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How to Eat Meat Sticks?
Here are 5 ways to eat beef sticks:
- Straight Out of The Package: It’s the most common way to enjoy beef sticks. Simply, just open the package and enjoy the dried meat!
- Sliced or Chopped: Use a sharp knife to slice or chop the beef sticks into smaller pieces or rounds, making them easier to eat and add to other dishes like salads, soups, or trail mixes.
- In a Sandwich or Wrap: Dice or slice beef sticks and add them to sandwiches, wraps, or tortilla roll-ups with other fillings like cheese, lettuce, and condiments.
- In a Dish: While beef sticks are already cooked and cured, you can chop them up and add them to dishes like fried rice, pasta, and scrambles for added protein and flavor.
- With Dips or Spreads: Beef sticks pair with dips, like mustard, cheese dips, ranch, or even peanut butter or cream cheese.
Learn More: What Is The Best Knife for Cutting Meat? 10 Best Meat Carving Knives
The kind of meat used in making the above foods makes a great difference in the taste of the final meat sticks. Although choosing the best meat is a matter of taste, it’s better to select the type of meat with zero or low carbohydrates.
