Aussies are spending more than ever on protein snacks, yet many still feel tired, hungry, and unsatisfied. Plant-based options promise clean energy but often fall short on protein quality. Jerky delivers, but is it right for everyone? Sorting through the hype is exhausting.

This article breaks it down. We’re putting jerky and plant-based protein snacks head-to-head, so you can find the snack that fits your lifestyle. Let’s settle it once and for all.

Why Protein Matters in Aussie Diets

Protein is more than just a gym buzzword; it’s essential for every Aussie, whether you're lifting weights or lifting groceries. It builds and repairs muscles, supports a healthy immune system, and keeps you feeling full between meals. In a fast-paced lifestyle, protein helps maintain steady energy levels and curbs those mid-arvo snack attacks.

For active Aussies, tradies, and parents on the go, protein is the fuel that keeps you moving. Unlike carbs that burn quickly, protein digests more slowly, providing longer-lasting satisfaction. It also plays a key role in maintaining bone density, skin health, and hormone function.

The challenge? Many snacks on supermarket shelves are low in protein and high in sugar. That’s where smarter options like 3099 Jerky come in, offering high protein, low sugar, and no unnecessary fillers. Whether meal prepping or grabbing something between jobs, prioritising protein can transform how you feel, perform, and recover.

What’s in Jerky?

At its core, jerky is beautifully simple. It’s lean meat with natural preservatives, 3099 Jerky sliced thin and dried to preserve flavour and nutrition. But not all jerky is created equal. While some brands load theirs, keep it clean.

Our jerky starts with 100% grass-fed Australian beef, marinated for 24 hours in a natural blend of herbs and spices. Then, it’s gently air-dried to lock in flavour, texture, and protein. There are no fillers, no gluten, and absolutely no shortcuts.

The result? A high-protein, low-sugar snack that actually satisfies. Each serve delivers over 14g of protein and less than 2g of sugar, making it ideal for anyone chasing clean fuel, whether you’re lifting at the gym or lifting tools on site.

From Smokey BBQ to Chilli and Original, 3099 Jerky is proof that simple, honest ingredients still make the best snacks.

What’s in Plant-Based Protein Snacks?

Plant-based protein snacks are often marketed as the healthier choice, but what’s actually in them? Most are built on ingredients like pea protein, soy isolate, nuts, seeds, and legumes, solid plant protein sources. But to make them taste good and hold together, many are also packed with syrups, starches, oils, thickeners, and a cocktail of added flavours.

It’s common to find 10 or more ingredients in a single bar, including added sugars, artificial sweeteners, and preservatives. While they’re great for vegans and vegetarians, they’re often higher in carbs and sugar, and lower in protein per serve compared to jerky.

Plus, not all are gluten-free, so if you’re coeliac or gluten-sensitive, it pays to read the fine print. In short, plant-based protein snacks can work for some lifestyles, but if you want clean, simple, and high-protein fuel, jerky might still be the better bite.

 Jerky vs. Plant-Based: Nutrition Face-Off

Curious which protein snack truly delivers? This face-off reveals how jerky and plant-based options stack up where it counts.

1. Protein Quality

Jerky offers complete animal protein with all nine essential amino acids your body needs for muscle repair, energy, and recovery. 

Plant-based snacks like soy, peas, or rice often lack one or more amino acids unless combined. That makes jerky a stronger choice for those looking to build strength or stay fuller longer. For a clean, high-impact snack, 3099 Jerky delivers the full protein package with no compromise.

2. Sugar Content

Most plant-based snacks sneak in natural syrups, dates, or added sugars to boost flavour and texture, often totalling 5 to 12 grams per serve. That can cause energy crashes and sugar cravings. 

Conversely, 3099 Jerky keeps it lean with less than 2 grams of sugar, giving you long-lasting fuel without the spike. For steady energy and less sugar in your day, jerky easily wins here.

3. Additives and Fillers

Plant-based snacks can be highly processed, relying on gums, emulsifiers, starches, and binding agents to hold everything together. These ingredients are often hidden behind fancy branding. 

3099 Jerky skips the fillers, keeping it simple with lean Aussie beef, natural spices, and zero preservatives. To keep your snacks clean, minimal, and easy to digest, jerky delivers what your body wants: real food.

4. Satiety and Fullness

Thanks to its dense protein and chewy texture, jerky is incredibly satisfying and helps curb hunger for hours. Plant-based snacks, while nutritious, are often digested faster and may leave you searching for a second snack sooner. 

3099 Jerky helps you feel full, focused, and fuelled, making it ideal for work, gym sessions, or long days. When hunger strikes, jerky keeps it sorted.

5. Lifestyle Compatibility

Plant-based snacks are great for vegans or those avoiding meat. But for low-carb, high-protein, paleo, or keto diets, jerky is the precise match. It aligns with clean eating goals and is trusted by athletes, tradies, and busy parents alike. 

3099 Jerky fits nearly every lifestyle that values performance, simplicity, and real nutrition. It is all in one convenient, portable pack.

Which Snack Fits Which Lifestyle?

Choosing between jerky and plant-based snacks depends on your goals. If you're focused on muscle building, low-carb eating, or clean fuel on the go, jerky is ideal. It’s perfect for gym-goers, tradies, and busy parents who need long-lasting energy without sugar crashes.

Conversely, plant-based snacks suit vegans, vegetarians, or those prioritising eco-conscious choices. They’re often packed with fibre and suit people who are avoiding animal products.

However, not all plant-based options are created equal; some are processed and high in sugar. 3099 Jerky, on the other hand, is made from Aussie beef, gluten-free, and preservative-free, making it a top-tier choice for high-protein lifestyles.

So, whether lifting weights, chasing kids, or chasing deadlines, choose the snack that fuels your body, not just your cravings.

Why More Aussies Choose 3099 Jerky for Everyday Fuel

When Aussies want a no-nonsense snack that fuels their day, they reach for 3099 Jerky. Packed with over 14 grams of quality protein per serve and less than 2 grams of sugar, it’s the go-to for tradies, gym lovers, and busy parents who need real energy, not a sugar crash.

Made from 100% grass-fed Australian beef and air-dried to lock in flavour, every bite hits the spot. You won’t find any preservatives, fillers, or dodgy additives here. Just bold, satisfying flavours like smokey, chilli and original, each handcrafted for full-on taste without the gluten or carbs.

Whether you’re chasing gains, watching your gut health, or just want a cleaner snack in your glovebox, 3099 Jerky’s got your back. It’s also Aussie-owned and supports local farmers, a win for your body and the bush. Forget the filler-filled bars. Grab jerky that’s lean, legit, and loaded with flavour.

The Verdict on Protein Power

Both snacks have their place, but if you’re chasing real protein, lasting energy, and clean ingredients, 3099 Jerky is your go-to. It’s made for movement, fuelled by flavour, and fits into your day without fuss. Ready to snack smarter? Grab a pack of 3099 Jerky today and power up the Aussie way.