Is Epic Beef Jerky suitable for Paleo diet?

Yes, Epic is officially Paleo-certified with only Paleo-approved ingredients: grass-fed beef, cherry juice, habanero peppers, sea salt, and spices. It's also Whole30-compatible (check specific batch, as some flavors vary), making it one of the cleanest jerky options for ancestral eating patterns.

What does Habanero Cherry jerky taste like?

It's a unique sweet-heat combination. The dried cherries provide natural sweetness similar to cranberry, while habanero peppers deliver genuine spicy heat that builds gradually. It's not overwhelmingly hot - most people find it pleasantly spicy with the sweetness balancing the heat. The beef flavor remains prominent, not masked by seasoning.

Why is grass-fed beef better than conventional jerky?

Grass-fed beef contains 2-4x more omega-3 fatty acids, higher levels of CLA (linked to fat loss), more vitamin E and beta-carotene, and superior mineral content compared to grain-fed beef. It also avoids antibiotics and hormones commonly used in conventional beef production. The taste is often described as more robust and 'beefy'.

Is Epic jerky good for backpacking and hiking?

Excellent choice. It requires no refrigeration, weighs very little (high protein-to-weight ratio), won't spoil in hot weather, and provides quick-digesting protein and carbs for sustained energy on the trail. The 1.5oz package is TSA-friendly and fits easily in pockets or small pack compartments.

Can I eat Epic jerky if I'm gluten-free or dairy-free?

Yes, Epic Beef Habanero Cherry is both gluten-free and dairy-free, making it safe for celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, and lactose intolerance. It's also free from soy and common allergens except for beef itself. Always verify the label, as cross-contamination protocols vary by production facility.

Where can I buy Epic Beef Jerky?

Available at Whole Foods, REI, Sprouts, Target, and specialty outdoor retailers. Online options include Amazon, Thrive Market, and EpicBar.com. REI and outdoor stores often stock it in their snack sections. Buying multi-packs online typically saves 15-20% compared to single packages.

Is Epic worth $3.99 vs $2 gas station jerky?

If ingredient quality matters, yes. At 36 cents per gram of protein, it's premium-priced, but you're paying for grass-fed beef, no nitrites/preservatives, and sustainable sourcing. Compare it to the cost of organic beef and quality ingredients, not mass-produced jerky with corn syrup and sodium nitrite.

How should I store Epic jerky?

Store unopened packages at room temperature in a cool, dry place for 12+ months - check best-by date. Once opened, reseal and consume within 2-3 days for peak freshness, or refrigerate for up to a week. The low moisture content prevents spoilage, but texture and flavor degrade after opening.

Is Epic jerky suitable for the carnivore diet?

Mostly yes, with one caveat. The beef is 100% grass-fed with no additives, which aligns with carnivore principles. However, the cherry juice and habanero add 8g sugar and plant ingredients. Strict carnivores may prefer Epic's Original flavor with just beef and salt. For flexible carnivore dieters, the Habanero Cherry is fine.

Why does Epic jerky have 8g of sugar?

The sugar comes entirely from cherry juice used for flavor, not added refined sugar. Cherries are naturally high in fruit sugars. While this makes it unsuitable for strict keto (9g carbs), the natural fruit sugars provide quick energy for active individuals. Epic offers lower-sugar flavors if you're limiting carbs.

Can kids eat Epic Beef Habanero Cherry?

The protein and clean ingredients are kid-friendly, but the habanero heat may be too spicy for children under 8-10 years old. Epic offers milder flavors like Original or Bison Bacon Cranberry that kids typically enjoy. Always check with your child first with a small taste to assess spice tolerance.

Why Choose Epic Beef Habanero Cherry?

Epic Beef Habanero Cherry is ideal for those seeking clean, whole-food animal protein in the most portable form possible. With 11g of grass-fed beef protein, Paleo certification, and a unique sweet-spicy flavor from real cherries and habanero peppers, it's perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, carnivore dieters, travelers, and anyone prioritizing quality meat sources over processed protein products.

11g ProteinPerfect for your fitness goals

Epic Provisions

Epic Beef Habanero Cherry - 11g Protein

Name: Epic Beef Habanero Cherry
Brand: Epic Provisions
Price: 3.99 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.6 (320 reviews)

4.6 (320 reviews)

11g

Protein per serving

PaleoGluten-FreeDairy-Free

Expert Reviewed Content

Reviewed by Registered Dietitian Emily Rodriguez, MS, RDN, CLT

Last updated: January 17, 2025

Epic Beef Habanero Cherry represents the evolution of beef jerky from gas station afterthought to premium protein snack worthy of serious athletes and food enthusiasts. Made exclusively from 100% grass-fed beef raised without antibiotics or added hormones, this jerky delivers 11g of complete, highly bioavailable animal protein in a convenient 1.5oz package. The Habanero Cherry flavor profile is a revelation - sweet dried cherries balance the fiery heat of habanero peppers, creating a complex sweet-heat dance on your palate that keeps you reaching for another piece. Unlike mass-produced jerky loaded with corn syrup, nitrites, and preservatives, Epic uses only real ingredients you can identify: grass-fed beef, cherry juice, habanero peppers, sea salt, black pepper, and spices. The grass-fed beef delivers superior nutrition compared to conventional beef jerky, providing higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), and vitamins A and E that come from cattle grazing on pasture rather than confined in feedlots. At just 100 calories with 4g of fat, it's remarkably lean while remaining tender and chewy rather than dry and tough - a testament to Epic's slow-smoking process that preserves moisture without added glycerin. The Paleo certification makes it compliant with ancestral eating principles, while the gluten-free and dairy-free formulation accommodates multiple dietary restrictions simultaneously. Each strip is hand-cut to maintain optimal texture, resulting in substantial pieces that deliver satisfying chew rather than thin, crispy shards that disappear in seconds. Perfect for backpacking, hiking, road trips, or office snacking, this jerky requires no refrigeration and maintains quality for months in your bag, car, or desk drawer. The 11g of protein may seem modest compared to protein bars, but this is 100% whole-food animal protein with the complete amino acid profile and high digestibility that only real meat provides - no protein isolates, no synthetic amino acids, just beef. Whether you're following a carnivore diet, need portable protein for outdoor adventures, or simply appreciate craft jerky that tastes like actual food rather than processed meat candy, Epic delivers premium quality that justifies its artisanal price point.

Best For

✓Outdoor adventures: hiking, backpacking, and camping
✓Paleo and carnivore dieters seeking compliant protein
✓Road trips and travel where refrigeration isn't available
✓Office and desk snacking with no prep required
✓Pre-workout energy from quick-digesting animal protein
✓Those avoiding processed protein powders and bars

$3.99

Buy Now

* As an affiliate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Price shown is approximate.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 bar

Calories100

Total Fat4g

Total Carbohydrate9g

Dietary Fiber0g

Total Sugars8g

Protein11g 💪

Sodium320mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Pros & Cons

Pros

+100% grass-fed beef provides superior nutrition and omega-3 fatty acids
+No antibiotics, hormones, nitrites, or artificial preservatives
+Unique habanero-cherry flavor balances heat with natural sweetness
+Paleo-certified and compatible with Whole30, gluten-free, dairy-free
+Only 100 calories - extremely lean protein source
+No refrigeration needed - shelf-stable for months
+Hand-cut strips provide satisfying, substantial chew

Cons

-Lower protein content (11g) compared to protein bars
-Not suitable for vegetarians, vegans, or plant-based diets
-Premium price at $3.99 per 1.5oz package
-Higher sugar content (8g from cherry juice) not keto-friendly

Frequently Asked Questions About Epic Beef Habanero Cherry

Each 1.5oz package contains 11g of complete animal protein from 100% grass-fed beef. While lower than some protein bars, this is pure, whole-food meat protein with superior bioavailability and the complete amino acid profile. Your body can utilize nearly 100% of the protein from beef, compared to 70-85% from plant proteins.

How to Use Epic Beef Habanero Cherry

Optimal Timing for Performance

Excellent pre-workout snack 30-45 minutes before training, providing quick-digesting animal protein and natural sugars from cherries for immediate energy. The sodium helps maintain electrolyte balance during sweating. Great mid-hike or during long trail runs as portable protein that won't spoil. Also effective post-workout when paired with a carb source like fruit to hit 20-25g total protein. Perfect afternoon desk snack that requires zero preparation.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

Enjoy straight from the package at room temperature for optimal texture and flavor. Pair with nuts (almonds, cashews) and dried fruit for a complete trail mix providing 15-20g protein plus healthy fats. Chop into small pieces and add to salads for a protein boost and smoky-sweet flavor. Serve alongside cheese and crackers for a protein-rich snack board. Complement with fresh fruit to balance the heat with natural sweetness.

Travel and Outdoor Integration

Essential for backpacking - pack 2-3 packages per day for lightweight, shelf-stable protein that won't burden your pack weight. Keep in car glove box or center console for emergency protein during long drives. TSA-friendly for air travel - pack in carry-on for high-protein airport snacking. Store in desk drawer for weeks without refrigeration. Include in bug-out bags and emergency kits as long-term stable protein source.

Storage and Quality Maintenance

Store unopened packages in a cool (60-75°F), dry pantry away from direct sunlight for 12-18 months. Heat above 85°F can cause some fat separation but doesn't affect safety. Once opened, fold the top and clip, then consume within 2-3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. Never freeze, as this alters the texture making it brittle. In humid environments, add a food-safe silica packet to storage container to prevent moisture absorption.

Pro Tip: For best results, pair with your workout routine and stay hydrated throughout the day.