Why can jerky and freeze-dried meats be stored at room temperature?

Jerky and freeze-dried meats can be stored at room temperature because they have undergone dehydration, a process that removes moisture from the product.12

Microorganisms, which are responsible for food spoilage, require moisture to grow and thrive. By extracting this water, the environment becomes unsuitable for microbial activity, effectively preserving the meat for extended periods. In the case of freeze-drying, the meat is frozen and then placed under high vacuum conditions, causing the ice to sublimate directly into vapor without passing through a liquid state. This method is particularly effective at maintaining the stability and quality of the meat.1324

While dehydration inhibits microbial growth, it is important to maintain proper food preservation practices, such as using high-quality raw materials and sanitary packaging, to prevent contamination from external sources like dust or insects.4