Can old opened beef jerky get you sick?

Yes, old opened beef jerky can make you sick. Here's why: Beef jerky is a dried meat product that is made from beef that has been cut into strips and then dried and seasoned with salt and spices. While drying the meat helps to preserve it and prevent it from spoiling, it does not completely eliminate the risk of bacterial contamination.

Over time, even unopened beef jerky can become contaminated with bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses. Leaving opened beef jerky out at room temperature can further increase the risk of bacterial growth. This is because bacteria thrive in warm, moist environments, and opened beef jerky provides an ideal environment for them to grow.

Some of the bacteria that can potentially contaminate beef jerky and make you sick include:

* E. coli: E. coli can cause a variety of symptoms, including abdominal cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, and fever. In severe cases, E. coli can cause kidney failure and even death.

* Salmonella: Salmonella can cause typhoid fever, which can lead to a high fever, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Salmonella can also cause food poisoning, which can cause similar symptoms to E. coli.

* Listeria: Listeria can cause listeriosis, which is a serious infection that can be particularly dangerous for pregnant women, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Listeriosis can cause fever, headaches, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal symptoms. In severe cases, it can lead to meningitis and even death.

To avoid getting sick from old opened beef jerky, make sure to store it properly. After opening a package, it is best to keep it refrigerated and consume it within 2-3 days. If you are unable to consume the beef jerky within that timeframe, you can freeze it to extend its shelf life. When handling beef jerky, always wash your hands before and after eating.