what temp to dehydrate jerky

To dehydrate jerky safely, it is recommended to heat meat to 160 °F and poultry to 165 °F before the dehydrating process. Once the meat is prepared, it should be dried in a food dehydrator at a temperature of at least 130 to 140 °F. The internal temperature of the jerky should reach 160 °F, and then the dehydrator can be turned down to 145°F. The drying process typically takes around 4-5 hours at 165°F, but the drying time can vary based on factors such as ambient temperature, humidity, meat thickness, and cut of meat. Its important to ensure that the dehydrator has an adjustable temperature dial and can maintain a consistent temperature throughout the process. Following these guidelines will help ensure that the jerky is safely dehydrated and free from harmful bacteria.