Established in 2013, Smokehouse Jerky Co. has grown significantly over the past decade, becoming a leading private label provider for over 150 jerky and snack companies. Franco and Patti Fonseca assumed company ownership in 2017 and have since been dedicated to refining their jerky and snack lines. Smokehouse Jerky Co. actively seeks new distributors nationwide and also offers private label services.
With a diverse product range, Smokehouse Jerky Co. presents an array of options, including beef, bacon, game, and exotic jerky, as well as meat sticks. The brand is distributed by Smokehouse Jerky Co., which is headquartered in Hemet, California.
The next review on Smokehouse Jerky Co. will focus on a 3.2 ounce/92 gram bag of their Peppered flavored beef jerky. This jerky was graciously submitted for review by co-owner Franco Fonseca.
Ingredient Review
Ingredients: Beef, Vinegar, Brown Cane Sugar, Salt, Smoke Flavoring, Spices, Soy Sauce (Water, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Salt, Molasses, Caramel Color, Sodium Benzoate), Natural Flavor
This brisket cut of beef used is from cattle raised in California. The beef used is not guaranteed to be free of growth hormones or additional antibiotics. Also, the beef is not guaranteed to have at least partial free range access to graze on grass. As a result, the highest ingredient rating that can be awarded is a Good (8/10) rating.
The only healthy ingredient added is spices. The vague term natural flavor is a listed ingredient, which may include healthy or unhealthy ingredients.
The sugar level is low at 1 gram of sugar per 28 grams of beef jerky. The salt level is low at 250mg of salt per 28 grams of beef jerky.
This jerky does qualify to have no sodium nitrite or any other similar unhealthy preservatives. This flavor does not qualify to have no MSG added because the cheap, highly processed flavor enhancer hydrolyzed soy protein is used to lose a rating.
Decent (7/10) – Ingredient Rating
Taste Review
SMOKEHOUSE JERKY CO. – PEPPERED COWBOY BEEF JERKY
Written by guest jerky reviewer Paul Rekker
When I open the bag I smell soy. The jerky varies in size and thickness. It is dry and chewy tough, just as our forefathers intended.
The first flavors I encounter are salt, pepper, garlic, soy, and natural beef. I don’t detect much sweetness at all, which is a good thing.
The first word that comes to my mind when I think of a cowboy is “rawhide”, and this texture of jerky reminds me somewhat of rawhide in that it is tough, dry, and chewy. Hence, the “cowboy” in the title of the flavor. I don’t think anybody with taste buds can not pick up on the intense “peppered” flavor. It is exactly as advertised.
I am very much seriously enjoying this latest flavor of jerky from Smokehouse Jerky Co., they have truly outdone themselves. A very well deserved 10/10. Gentlemen?
Written by guest jerky reviewer Stéphane Leclerc
The Smokehouse Jerky Co. – Peppered beef jerky is simply awesome. This jerky is well balanced, and the beef meaty flavor and black pepper taste are front and center. As it was previously described to me, I was expecting to chip a tooth or something. I was pleasantly surprised by the fantastic texture of this jerky.
This jerky is relatively dry and lean without being leathery or tough. The texture and chew are very pleasant. The aroma is also lovely and mild. The taste is incredible, as the beef and black pepper are bold and exquisite. The cracked black pepper is floral and hits every little taste bud twice.
There is a richness to this flavor profile, and the spices and seasoning are nicely tucked away in the background. I appreciate this jerky, as I am hit with a great deal of flavors, and none are competing with the Stars of the show. The saltiness and sweetness are in check, and the garlic and herbs are present while keeping the taster guessing.
I found the Smokehouse Jerky Co. – Peppered beef jerky to be extremely delicious and addictive. This jerky is expertly made in small batches, and the wisdom and expertise of their team can be savored in each and every bite. This jerky truly deserves a 10/10 Taste Rating. Godspeed! …Some for everyone, and nobody feels left out.
Here is what Mark had to say about this Peppered beef jerky flavor from Smokehouse Jerky Co.: “Thanks Paul and Stéphane for the glowing taste reviews. It’s pretty hard to disagree with either of you. You both covered everything here regarding to this peppered flavor. I will add one small complaint, not the fault of this bag being vacuum-sealed. As mentioned, the texture was rigid. What I found is that about maybe 5% of the strips had pretty much disintegrated into tiny pieces. With Paul and Stéphane at a 10 rating and myself at a 9 rating, an Excellent (10/10) will be awarded.”
This 4 ounce/91 gram bag of beef jerky sells online for $12.00. That costs $3.00 an ounce, which rates as an average price.
Excellent (10/10) – Taste Rating
Bag Review
This non-resealable plastic bag has a label affixed to both the front and back. The label has a fairly detailed picture of a wooden shack with a “Smokehouse” sign. This bag is vacuum sealed, the best way to keep jerky fresh tasting.
There are no slogans printed on this bag. Some facts printed on this bag are “Made in U.S.A.” and “Quarter Pound”.
There only missing bag category is a best before date. A batch number is provided, which could translate to a best before date. Admirably, a phone number is provided for customer inquiries.
Order their jerky online: www.smokehousejerkyco.com
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