A formal ribbon cutting for Carson’s newest food manufacturer took place the evening of July 10. Pictured from left: Eleanor Baird, Mayor Lori Bagwell, Kyle Baird, Sarah Baird, Carson City Chamber Chair Teri Preston, and Lola Baird. Credit: Photo by Jenny Treece

By Ronni Hannaman — Many new food manufacturers are calling Carson City home finding this the perfect location to produce nationally acclaimed food products for shipping to national and international destinations.

One such company, Jerky Junction, producers and crafters of small-batch high quality jerky made from premium U.S. beef and exotic animals recently opened their new headquarters after temporarily manufacturing out of Mound House while looking for their permanent location.

Credit: Photo by Ronni Hannaman

The company was started in 1992 in Riverside, CA by Andy Baird who, in 2010, passed the torch to son Kyle and daughter-in-law Sarah who, in turn, plan to incorporate their daughters, Eleanor and Lola, into the family business when they come of age. Kyle credits much of the growth and success of Jerky Junction to wife Sarah.

While one would think jerky is made mostly of beef and chicken, this couple has taken jerky to new heights knowing that individual tastes vary and there are foodies always looking for a new taste adventure.

Credit: Photo by Jenny Treece

Ever wonder what a Cajun alligator tastes like?  Or a camel or kangaroo?  Even typing the work python makes me cringe, but you can eat the python jerky which is considered a delicacy primarily in Southeast Asia.  The unique-tasting snapping turtle makes for a tasty treat when processed by Jerky Junction.

For those with less exotic tastes, meat lovers will enjoy yak, especially if you like bison or elk.  Then there’s rabbit, duck, goose, turkey, ahi, salmon, shark, and swordfish jerky.  

Beef, sourced only in the U.S., is always the staple and you can have it your way – spicy, peppered or sweet.  Flavored with teriyaki, whiskey or tequila lime or maybe some honey habanero to make your taste buds sing.

Jerky Junction produces jerky products for private labels in their cutting-edge USDA and FDA certified facility.  They are “silent partners,” with other brands, thus you may have been enjoying their jerky treats for over 30 years.  

Proud of their “made in USA” branding, Jerky Junction is a welcome addition to Carson’s manufacturing community.  They are also proud residents of Carson City.

 There is a small retail outlet at the facility located at 3880 Technology Way or you can order online. Open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Visit their website jerkyjunction.com to learn more.

— Ronni Hannaman is the Executive Director of the Carson City Chamber of Commerce.