By Cassie Dugan
<[email protected]>

Q: Whose idea was it to start a jerky-making business?

A: It was my idea. I borrowed a dehydrator from a neighbor to make some jerky for a rafting trip. I shared some with some of my friends, and they all thought it was good. I thought I could probably sell it at school and make some money.

Q: How long has it been in operation.

A: I started it up at the beginning of the year, so around August.

Q: How much does one quarter lb of jerky cost?

A: It is $5 for one quarter lb of jerky. But if you buy a pound it is only $18.

Q: Describe the process of making beef jerky.

A: I buy top round beef at Costco and then cut it into one quarter inch strips. Then I marinate the beef for 24 hours in a marinade I make myself. Next, I put the beef into the dehydrator and dry it for nine and a half hours.

Q: How much time does it normally take to produce one batch of beef jerky?

A: It usually takes around 36 hours (to make).

Q: How do you advertise and promote your jerky business?

A: I give out free samples all the time in my classes. That’s pretty much the only way I advertise.

Q: Where do you make the jerky and what supplies do you need?

A: I make it in my kitchen. You need a really sharp knife, a couple of cutting boards, marinade, really lean beef, a dehydrator and someone who is willing to put up with you making it in their house.