As more Aussies shift toward low-sugar lifestyles, the snack aisle is evolving. Beef jerky has become a standout option, packed with protein and often lower in carbs than traditional treats. 

But not all jerky is created equal. In this comparison, we pit 3099 Jerky against Naked Jerky to find out which one truly delivers on the low-sugar promise for health-conscious snackers.

Why Sugar Content Matters in Beef Jerky

Sugar in beef jerky plays a bigger role than many realise, influencing not only taste but also how the snack fits into your diet. While it helps balance saltiness and tenderise the meat, excess sugar can quickly transform jerky from a lean, nutrient-dense option into a source of empty kilojoules. 

For keto followers, even small amounts of added sugar can increase carb intake enough to disrupt ketosis, making it harder to stay in fat-burning mode. Those managing diabetes may face sudden blood-glucose spikes, which can affect energy stability and long-term health. 

High sugar intake also contributes to water retention, leaving you feeling bloated and masking the clean, savoury flavour true jerky fans love. Opting for low- or zero-sugar varieties allows you to savour the natural taste of premium beef, keep your macros balanced, support muscle recovery, and maintain steady energy levels throughout the day.

A Closer Look at the Sugar and Ingredient Profile

When comparing 3099 Jerky and Naked Jerky, the ingredient list reveals what truly sets us apart. 3099 Jerky prides itself on using 100% Australian grass-fed beef, seasoned with clean, minimal ingredients. Many of their flavours are completely sugar-free, making them ideal for keto or low-carb diets. There’s no MSG, artificial preservatives, or unnecessary fillers, just bold, savoury flavour.

On the other hand, Naked Jerky often includes small amounts of sugar, honey, or fruit-based marinades. While marketed as a natural snack, some variants still contain 2-4g of sugar per serving. 

The ingredient list leans more towards traditional flavours with a hint of sweetness, which can be a drawback for those avoiding added sugars.

For health-conscious snackers, especially those tracking macros or blood sugar, these differences make a big impact. If transparency and sugar control top your list, 3099 Jerky’s clean label gives it a significant edge.

Taste and Texture: Does Lower Sugar Mean Less Flavour?

Many assume low sugar means bland taste, but that’s not the case with quality jerky. 3099 Jerky proves that bold flavour doesn't need added sweetness. Their spice blends and natural umami deliver a deep, savoury chew that keeps things exciting with every bite. The texture is firm but not overly dry, making it a satisfying mouthful. 

Naked Jerky, in contrast, leans on slight sweetness in some flavours, which gives it a milder, softer profile. While some enjoy the sweet-savvy balance, others may find it masks the meat’s true flavour. 

When sugar is removed from the equation, only the best cuts and seasoning shine through, making 3099 Jerky the clear winner for those seeking taste without compromise.

Carb Count Showdown: Who Keeps It Lower?

For anyone tracking their macros, especially keto enthusiasts, even a small carb difference can make a big impact. 3099 Jerky stays impressively low, with most carbs coming from natural herbs and spices rather than added sugars or thickeners. This means you get bold flavour without sabotaging your carb allowance. 

In contrast, Naked Jerky tends to carry a higher carb load, often due to sweet marinades or sugar-based glazes that enhance taste but push up the carb total. While the increase may seem minor per serving, it adds up quickly for regular snackers. 

For those aiming to maintain ketosis, manage blood sugar, or simply keep daily carb intake in check, the gap between the two brands is worth noting. In the carb-conscious category, 3099 Jerky takes the win, delivering taste and texture without the hidden carb creep.

Which Jerky Fits Better into Low-Sugar Diets?

For anyone monitoring sugar intake, whether for keto goals, diabetes management, or general wellness, every snack decision counts. 3099 Jerky is created with this in mind, with many flavours containing 0g of sugar, making it an easy fit for sugar-free or low-carb diets. Its recipes skip unnecessary sweeteners, relying instead on bold blends of herbs, spices, and salt-based seasoning to deliver rich, satisfying flavour without the sugar hit.

By comparison, Naked Jerky typically contains 2–4g of sugar per serve, which can quickly add up for strict eaters or those counting every gram. While it is still positioned as a natural, high-protein snack, its sugar content makes it less tailored to low-sugar lifestyles.

For those seeking clean snacking without hidden carbs, 3099 Jerky offers both peace of mind and palate-pleasing taste, proving that you can enjoy high-quality beef jerky without compromising your nutritional goals.

Sugar-Free Status: Is Jerky Truly Sugar-Free?

Many jerky brands promote themselves as low sugar, yet that label doesn’t always guarantee sugar-free status. Ingredients such as honey, fruit juice, or brown sugar often appear, even in products marketed as healthier options. 

3099 Jerky takes a more transparent approach. While select flavours include a small amount of brown sugar for flavour balance, others are entirely sugar-free, offering flexibility for various dietary preferences.

Notably, the brand keeps sugar content as low as 0.5g per serve without turning to artificial sweeteners or syrups, ensuring a clean ingredient list. In contrast, Naked Jerky generally carries higher sugar levels across its range, making it less ideal for those on keto or managing diabetes.

For snackers aiming to minimise rather than completely eliminate sugar, 3099 Jerky delivers bold flavour while keeping the carb impact minimal, making it a smart choice for mindful eaters.

Final Verdict

If you're chasing a bold, satisfying snack without the sugar spike, 3099 Jerky leads the pack. With zero added sugars in many flavours, a clean ingredient list, and keto-friendly macros, it’s built for those who snack smart. 

While Naked Jerky still offers quality, its added sugars tip the balance. For true sugar-conscious eaters, 3099 Jerky is the better bite.