A Sausage High

NASCAR Salami Sticks vs. Jack Link's Jerky Chew

The vending machine at my workplace has these NASCAR salami sticks for 85 cents. The last time I bought this, I vowed never again. I broke that vow so I can conduct this review. According to this fascinating article, these are only available in vending machines.

Paired with the salami sticks for this review is a can of jerky chew from the drug store.


Officially Licensed NASCAR Salami Sticks (Beef and Pork)
Chandler, MN

Noteworthy Ingredients: Mustard, MSG, Chili Pepper, Natural Smoke Flavor, Paprika

Texture: These sticks seemingly have little to no casing, as my sunk in with no added pressure. It has a soft, even chew, though a little rubbery perhaps. In my youth I once bit a rubber super-bouncy ball, and this salami stick reminded me of that.

Taste: Maybe kinda like pepperoni? I detect the added smoke flavor. There is a weird fizzy sensation if you press the tip of your tongue to the salami. It's a little like touching your tongue to the posts of a 9 volt battery (also something I did in my youth and as recently as last year).


Jack Link's Beef Jerky Chew
Minong, WI (Proud to say that I've driven past the Jack Link's factory a couple times in my life.)

Noteworthy Ingredients: Chicken Stock, MSG, Maple Flavor

Texture: This is "shredded" beef in a plastic can, so there isn't much to say about the texture. Actually, it's not exactly shredded. "Pulverized" would be a more accurate description. It would be easier to eat if it were less powdery, because putting a pinch of this into your mouth is a little messy. I prefer to just dip my wet tongue into the can and see what sticks.

Taste: Like chicken soup.

Verdict: The novelty of the jerky chew, and the fact that it reminds me of my Kirk Gibson baseball mitt, gives it the nod.

Have you tried either of these? Let us know what you think of them in the comments.