What is the white on dehydrated jerky?

Tyrosine is an amino acid that is naturally present in beef, pork, chicken, and other meat products. When meat is dehydrated, the water content is removed, and the concentration of tyrosine increases. This can cause crystals of tyrosine to form on the surface of the meat, giving it a white appearance. Tyrosine crystals are not harmful and do not affect the taste or safety of the jerky. In fact, some people believe that tyrosine crystals add to the flavor and texture of jerky.