Beef Jerky questions

[Lanshark]

Is making beef jerky in a food dehydrator safe? Are E-COLI and other bacteria killed?

I used to make it all of the time in my dehydrator but haven't in several years because of the fear that it does not get hot enough to kill dangerous bacteria.

If it is safe I would be thrilled. If not does anyone have any easy, safe methods for preparing beef jerky?

Any Doctors in the house???

 

[Wendy]

I think this link should answer all your questions. USDA on Homemade Jerky It looks like your fears were correct that a home dehydrator does not get hot enough. In essence, in order for it to be safe, you need to first cook the meat to 160 degrees before drying it. This link was very interesting reading! I'm glad you asked this. I've always been afraid to make homemade jerky for fear of it being filled with nasty bacteria. Now that I know how to safely do it, I may just give it a try!

 

[Lanshark]

Thanks a bunch