Is Original Beef Jerky Stick Safe During Pregnancy? (Updated 2026 Guide)
Updated March 12, 2026
Original Beef Jerky Stick
Original Beef Jerky Stick receives a C+ grade for pregnancy safety. While it provides protein and iron from Beef, it contains sodium nitrite, a preservative that warrants caution during pregnancy due to potential risks at high exposures.
You can use this, but maybe don't make it your everyday go to. Not the end of the world if you've used it. Consult your OBGYN or midwife if you have concerns.
Pregnancy Safe is 100% independent and research driven. No companies pay to promote or sponsor products.
What Ingredients Are in Original Beef Jerky Stick?
Original Beef Jerky Stick has 15 ingredients. We flagged 1 ingredient to use with caution.
sodium nitrite
CAUTION
Sodium nitrite is a preservative used to cure meats. Use caution; this preservative has been associated with potential fetal risks at high exposures and may affect oxygen delivery to the baby.
apple juice
SAFE
Apple Juice is a sweet, refreshing liquid made by pressing and extracting the natural juice from fresh apples. Safe during pregnancy; provides natural sugars and hydration, though whole apples offer more fiber.
beef
SAFE
Beef is the flavorful meat from cattle, commonly used in a variety of savory dishes worldwide. Excellent source of iron and protein for pregnancy; always ensure it's cooked well done to avoid bacterial risk.
black pepper
SAFE
Black pepper is a pungent, aromatic spice derived from dried peppercorns, commonly used to add heat and depth to dishes. Safe in culinary amounts; may help with digestion and has mild anti inflammatory properties.
brown sugar
SAFE
Brown sugar is a moist, sweetener made from refined sugar with added molasses, imparting a rich, caramel like flavor. Safe in moderation; contributes to caloric intake without significant nutritional benefit.
honey
SAFE
Honey is a natural, sweet, golden syrup produced by bees from the nectar of flowers. Safe for pregnant women (the botulism risk applies only to infants under 1 year); provides natural sweetness.
lemon juice
SAFE
Lemon Juice is a tangy, citrusy liquid extracted from fresh lemons, often used to add brightness and acidity to dishes and beverages. Lemon juice is safe during pregnancy and may help with nausea; it also provides vitamin C.
natural flavor
SAFE
Natural flavor refers to flavoring agents derived from natural sources such as plants, fruits, or spices, used to enhance the taste of food and beverages. Broad category of flavoring agents; generally recognized as safe in food products.
natural smoke flavor
SAFE
Natural smoke flavor is a savory extract derived from smoked wood or other natural sources, used to impart a smoky taste to foods. Generally recognized as safe; derived from actual wood smoke condensate used for flavoring.
salt
SAFE
Salt is a mineral essential for flavor enhancement and preserving food. Essential in moderation; excess sodium can worsen pregnancy related swelling and blood pressure.
soy sauce water
SAFE
Soy sauce water is the diluted, savory liquid obtained by mixing soy sauce with water, often used as a flavorful base or seasoning in cooking. Safe in moderation; watch sodium intake as soy sauce is high in salt.
soybeans
SAFE
Soybeans are versatile, protein rich legumes commonly used in a variety of culinary dishes and as a source of plant based protein. Safe and nutritious during pregnancy; provides plant protein, fiber, and isoflavones in food amounts.
spices
SAFE
Spices are aromatic plant derived seasonings used to enhance the flavor and aroma of dishes. Culinary spices are safe during pregnancy; avoid medicinal doses of specific herbs.
water
SAFE
Water is a clear, tasteless, and essential liquid that sustains all known forms of life. Essential for amniotic fluid, increased blood volume, and overall pregnancy health.
wheat
SAFE
Wheat is a cereal grain widely cultivated for its edible seeds, which are a primary source of flour used in baking and food production. Safe unless you have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity; provides carbohydrates and some protein.
Answering Your Questions
How much Original Beef Jerky Stick is safe during pregnancy?
Limit to one Beef stick per serving. The high sodium content (common in jerky products) can contribute to fluid retention and blood pressure concerns during pregnancy.
Can you use Original Beef Jerky Stick daily while pregnant?
Enjoy occasionally as a treat rather than a daily snack. Aim for no more than 2-3 times per week to minimize sodium nitrite exposure while still satisfying protein cravings.
Is Original Beef Jerky Stick safe while breastfeeding?
Yes, Beef Jerky sticks are generally safe while breastfeeding. The sodium nitrite concern is primarily during fetal development. However, the high sodium content means moderation is still wise to maintain healthy hydration for Milk production.
What are pregnancy safe alternatives to Original Beef Jerky Stick?
Look for nitrate free or uncured Beef sticks, which use celery powder instead of sodium nitrite. You can also try freshly cooked lean beef, hard boiled eggs, Cheese sticks, or roasted chickpeas for portable protein snacks.
Why does Original Beef Jerky Stick get a C+ grade?
The C+ grade reflects the presence of sodium nitrite, a preservative linked to potential fetal risks at high exposures. While the Beef itself is nutritious and most ingredients are safe, the nitrite content warrants caution during pregnancy.
What are the risks of eating beef jerky while pregnant?
The main risks include foodborne illness from undercooked products, high sodium intake that can worsen swelling and blood pressure, and nitrate/nitrite preservatives that may affect fetal development. Commercially prepared, shelf stable jerky is safer than homemade versions.
Why do pregnant women crave beef jerky and beef sticks?
Pregnancy increases iron and protein needs significantly, and your body may signal these needs through cravings. Beef Jerky is a concentrated source of both nutrients, plus the savory, salty flavor can be especially appealing when dealing with food aversions.
Is homemade beef jerky safe during pregnancy?
Homemade Beef Jerky carries higher risk during pregnancy because home dehydrators may not reach temperatures high enough to kill harmful bacteria like Listeria and Toxoplasma. Stick to commercially prepared, shelf stable products that have been properly processed.
How can I safely enjoy beef sticks during pregnancy?
Choose shelf stable, commercially prepared products from reputable brands. Practice portion control, stay hydrated to offset sodium, and pair with fresh fruits or vegetables. Consider heating the jerky briefly in the microwave to reduce any bacterial risk.
What Are Pregnancy Safe Alternatives to Original Beef Jerky Stick?
Here are some solid alternatives. Everything below has an A or B grade, meaning no flagged ingredients in our database.
| Grade | Product | Brand | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Grass-Fed Beef Jerky Mango Habanero | Archer | beef jerky |
| A | Original Beef Jerky | Jack Links | beef jerky |
| A | Original Beef Jerky | Tillamook Country Smoker | beef jerky |
| A | Steak Strips | Simms | beef jerky |
How Does Original Beef Jerky Stick Compare to Other Beef Jerkies?
We graded 1,607 Beef Jerkies for pregnancy safety. Here's how they stack up:
Original Beef Jerky Stick earns a C+ grade, placing it among the top of Beef Jerkies. About 53% of products in this category get an A or B grade.
How Do We Score Products for Pregnancy Safety?
We analyze each product's ingredients and category to flag known risks and provide cautionary notices for general category safety concerns.
A - Safe
Excellent choice! All ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy.
What to do: Use with confidence.
B - Likely Safe
Pretty much safe with very minimal risk. Some ingredients may have limited pregnancy studies, but no significant safety concerns have been identified.
What to do: Use with confidence.
C - Limit
Contains ingredients with some pregnancy considerations. Research shows these ingredients may have limited safety data, potential for minor hormonal effects, or require caution based on animal studies.
What to do: Use sparingly and consider safer alternatives when available.
D - Caution
Similar to C grade but contains multiple cautionary ingredients. The combination increases overall concern.
What to do: Try to avoid if that makes you feel better. If you've already used it, no need to panic.
F - Avoid
Contains ingredients with established risks during pregnancy. Research shows these can cause birth defects, developmental harm, or serious maternal complications.
What to do: Do not use during pregnancy. If you've already used it, don't worry - contact your OBGYN if concerned.
References
- https://chemm.hhs.gov/countermeasure_sodium nitrite.htm
- https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/zeb.2012.0746
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1392223/
- https://oehha.ca.gov/sites/default/files/media/downloads/crnr/sodnithid.pdf
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2916857/
- https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-022-27345-x
- https://www.americordblood.com/articles/nitrates and pregancy
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/tera.1420180311
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8824361/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3607976/
- https://www.fishersci.ca/shop/products/sodium nitrite-98-thermo scientific-1/p-7024287
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/201444s000lbl.pdf
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10305619/
- https://www.pharmacompass.com/chemistry chemical name/sodium nitrite
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/203923s001lbl.pdf
- https://go.drugbank.com/salts/DBSALT002657
- https://www.myactivehealth.com/hwcontent/content/multum/d07762a1.html
- https://www.buzzrx.com/blog/food and nitrates
- https://www.pharmaffiliates.com/en/7632-00-0-sodium nitrite pa2701381.html
