Craving junk food? You’re not alone. Aussies consume over 30 kilograms of snack foods per person every year.

The worst part? Most of it’s ultra-processed, packed with sugar, and leaves you feeling sluggish and unsatisfied. That 3 p.m. snack attack quickly turns into regret.

But there’s a better way. In this article, I’ll show you how high-protein, clean jerky, like the kind we craft at 3099 Jerky, can crush cravings, fuel your body, and keep you away from the junk. Let’s fix the way we snack, once and for all!

Why Do We Crave Junk Food in the First Place?

Cravings don’t always stem from physical hunger. Often, they are your brain’s way of seeking a reward. Processed junk foods are carefully engineered to hit the right sugar, salt, and fat balance. This combination stimulates the brain’s pleasure centres and releases dopamine, which makes you want more, even when you are not hungry.

Stress, boredom, and tiredness are also common triggers. When your energy drops, your body looks for a quick boost, and junk food seems like the easiest fix. Unfortunately, that quick spike is followed by a crash, making the craving cycle even harder to escape.

There is also an emotional link. When anxious, overwhelmed, or lonely, many people turn to crisps or chocolate. These snacks may feel comforting in the moment, but provide little nutritional value.

Recognising these triggers is the first step. Once you understand the cause, replacing junk food with smarter, protein-rich options like jerky becomes much easier and more sustainable.

How Jerky Curbs Cravings Naturally

Cravings hit hard, but jerky hits harder. Here's why this high-protein powerhouse is the ultimate solution to snack-time struggles.

1. High Protein Keeps You Full

Jerky is packed with protein, and that’s a game-changer when it comes to hunger. Protein takes longer to digest than carbohydrates, so it stays in your stomach longer and helps you feel full for hours. This slow digestion keeps your appetite in check and reduces the need for mindless snacking. 

When your body gets enough protein, it reduces the urge to reach for quick-fix junk food. Instead of chasing short bursts of energy from sugar, you’re satisfied and energised for longer. One serving of jerky can truly hold you over until your next meal.

2. Zero Blood Sugar Spikes or Crashes

Junk food causes a quick rise in blood sugar and a hard crash. That crash brings even more cravings.

Jerky, however, is low in carbs and high in protein, which helps regulate blood sugar. That means no rollercoaster energy levels or late-night raids on the biscuit tin. Just steady fuel to get you through the day.

3. Satisfies Savoury Cravings

Cravings are often more about taste than hunger. Salty, smoky, spicy? Jerky delivers all of it. Whether it's garlic, chilli or classic Smokey BBQ, 3099 Jerky packs flavour in every bite.

It's the kind of snack that satisfies your tastebuds without reaching for chips or chocolate. Real flavour means real satisfaction, without the crash.

4. Easy to Grab and Go

Most healthy snacks require prep, storage, or refrigeration. Jerky doesn't. It’s shelf-stable, portable, and mess-free, making it perfect for your bag, desk drawer, or glove box. When a craving hits on the road or at work, you’re ready with a satisfying option that doesn’t involve a drive-thru or vending machine.

5. No Hidden Nasties

Unlike processed snacks that sneak in added sugars, preservatives, and artificial ingredients, 3099 Jerky is made from quality Aussie beef and honest ingredients. You know exactly what you're eating. That clean label matters when making better choices without compromising taste or convenience.

3099 Jerky vs Junk Food: A Smarter Swap

Chips or chocolate bars are harmless quick fixes, but the numbers tell a different story. When it comes to protein, sugar, and staying power, jerky easily takes the lead. Here’s how 3099 Jerky stacks up against the usual suspects you find in the snack aisle:

When to Snack on Jerky for the Best Results

Timing is everything. While jerky is always a better choice than junk, knowing when to enjoy it can maximise its benefits. Here are the top moments to reach for 3099 Jerky:

• Mid-Morning to Beat the Energy Slump: That late-morning crash between breakfast and lunch is prime time for bad choices. Jerky gives you a protein hit that powers you through without the sugar spike. It’s a smart move to stay focused, especially if you're stuck at your desk or out on the tools.
• After a Workout for Recovery: Your body needs protein to repair and grow muscle after training. Jerky is a quick, no-fuss option for getting that post-workout fuel. With no prep needed and solid macros, it helps you stay on track without reaching for processed shakes or bars.
• On the Road or Between Errands: Busy schedule? Jerky keeps you going without the drive-thru guilt. Whether running errands or driving long distances, having jerky in your bag or glove box can save you from making poor last-minute snack decisions.
• Late-Night Cravings Without the Guilt: Those after-dinner cravings are dangerous territory. Instead of chocolate or chips, reach for jerky. It satisfies that savoury bite without wrecking your macros. You’ll feel good knowing you chose real protein over empty calories.

Choosing the Right Jerky to Stay on Track

Choosing the right jerky matters; this section helps you pick the perfect protein-packed option to stay consistent with your goals.

• Stick to Simple Ingredients: Look for jerky made with real Aussie beef, sea salt, and spices. Avoid long ingredient lists filled with preservatives, additives, and artificial flavours that don’t belong in a clean, high-protein snack.
• Go High in Protein: Choose jerky that offers at least 20 grams of protein per serve. This helps keep you fuller for longer, supports muscle recovery, and gives your body the fuel it actually needs.
• Watch the Sugar Content: Many brands use added sugar, honey, or syrups. Keep your pick low in sugar, ideally under 2 grams per serve, to avoid blood sugar spikes and energy crashes that lead to cravings.
• Low in Carbs is Best: The fewer the carbs, the better. Jerky should be a low-carb snack that fits easily into keto, low-sugar, or high-protein eating plans. Check the label before tossing it in your trolley.
• Flavour Matters for Satisfaction: Pick bold flavours that satisfy your tastebuds, whether you love chilli, garlic, or smoky BBQ. If it hits the craving spot, you're less likely to reach for chips, biscuits, or chocolate later.
• Choose Aussie-Made Quality: Support local and get better quality by going for Aussie-made jerky. 3099 Jerky uses premium beef and clean recipes, giving you a better-tasting snack without the junk or overseas processing shortcuts.

The 3099 Difference: Not Just Any Jerky

Not all jerky is created equal, and that’s precisely where 3099 Jerky stands out. While some brands load their strips with sugar, preservatives, or artificial flavouring, 3099 keeps it clean, bold, and proudly Aussie.

We start with 100% grass-fed Australian beef, marinated for 24 hours in real spices and natural flavour blends. Then, it’s slow-dried to lock in richness, chew, and that signature meaty bite.

Forget rubbery textures or bland bites, our jerky is packed with authentic flavours like Smokey BBQ, Chilli, Garlic, Teriyaki, Salt and Vinegar, and Original,  Each strip delivers a savoury hit that satisfies your cravings without the sugar crash.

There are no fillers, MSG, or nasties, just real meat done right. It’s jerky the way it should be. Whether powering through a workout or fighting off mid-arvo hunger, 3099 Jerky is the smarter snack. High-protein, low-carb, and proudly made to fuel Aussies with real flavour.

Your New Go-To Craving Fix

Jerky isn’t just a tasty snack; it’s a smart, satisfying way to beat cravings and stay focused on your weight loss goals. Packed with protein, low in sugar, and easy to carry, the right jerky helps you feel full without the junk.

Ready to make better snack choices? Choose high-quality jerky like 3099 Jerky and stay on track without sacrificing flavour.