Why Are Some EPIC Bites and Strips Soft? Freshness and Quality Guide

Quick Answer

A soft or tender texture in EPIC bites and strips is often normal, especially for varieties with added moisture or lower fat content. But if the softness comes with an off smell, sliminess, or discoloration, it's a sign of spoilage. Check the expiration date and storage conditions to decide if the snack is still good.

You open a pack of EPIC Snack Strips and notice they're softer than the last batch. Is something wrong? Not necessarily. Many meat snacks, including EPIC bites and strips, are intentionally made with a tender chew rather than a hard, jerky-like bite.

Understanding what causes that soft texture helps you tell the difference between a quality product and one that's past its prime. This guide covers the reasons behind softness, how to store meat snacks for maximum freshness, and when to stop and choose another option.

Why Some EPIC Bites and Strips Are Naturally Soft

EPIC's snack strips and bites are crafted from whole cuts of meat, not heavily dried or pressed like many traditional jerky products. This means they retain more natural moisture, resulting in a tender, pliable texture. For example, the Smoked Salmon Snack Strips are made with 100% wild Alaskan salmon, which naturally has a softer texture than beef or chicken.

Additionally, ingredients like dried cranberries in the Sriracha Beef Bites or the maple glaze in some strips contribute to a softer mouthfeel. These additions are part of the flavor profile, not a sign of spoilage. So, if your snack has a soft but firm texture, it's likely by design.

• Check the product description: 'tender' or 'moist' often means a softer chew.
• Compare with a fresh pack: if the texture is consistent, it's normal.

How to Store Meat Snacks for Maximum Freshness

Proper storage is key to maintaining the texture and quality of your meat snacks. Once opened, reseal the package tightly or transfer the contents to an airtight container. Exposure to air can cause the snacks to dry out, while too much humidity can accelerate spoilage.

Store your EPIC bites and strips in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you live in a humid climate, consider refrigerating opened packages—this can help preserve texture and prevent mold. Always check the 'use by' date on the package and consume within a reasonable time after opening.

• Use a resealable container or bag after opening.
• Refrigerate if your environment is warm or humid.
• Avoid storing near heat sources like ovens or radiators.

When Softness Signals a Problem: Signs Your Snack Isn't Fresh

While softness is often normal, it's important to recognize when it indicates spoilage. If the snack feels excessively slimy, sticky, or mushy, that's a red flag. An off odor—like sour, rancid, or overly fishy—is another indicator, especially for salmon products.

Visible mold or discoloration (white spots, greenish tint, or darkening) also means the snack should be discarded. If the package was damaged or left at room temperature for extended periods, the risk of spoilage increases. Trust your senses: if something seems off, don't eat it.

• Smell: Fresh meat snacks have a savory, not sour or rancid, aroma.
• Feel: Slimy or excessively sticky texture is a warning sign.
• Look: Mold, unusual discoloration, or broken seals mean throw it out.

How to Check Expiration Dates and Lot Codes

Every EPIC product includes a 'use by' date and often a lot code. Before consuming, verify the date hasn't passed. If you're unsure about the lot code, contact EPIC's customer service—they can help you verify the product's freshness.

If you've purchased a larger pack or variety pack, like the Snack Strips Variety Pack, check each individual package's date, as they may vary. Storing your snacks properly and checking dates regularly ensures you're enjoying them at their best quality.

• Look for the date printed on the front or back of the package.
• When in doubt, contact the brand for assistance.

Diagnosis: Soft Texture–Normal or Not?

• Symptom: Your EPIC bites or strips have a soft or tender texture.
• Likely Cause: The product is designed to be moist and tender, or opened package is absorbing humidity. Check if the texture is consistent with previous packs.
• Corrective Action: Reseal properly, store in a cool dry place, or refrigerate opened packages. If the texture is unappealing, try a different variety like Birria Inspired Snack Strips with a firmer bite. If texture is the issue, explore other products.
• Stop and Choose Another Option: If you notice slime, off smell, or visible mold, discard immediately and don't eat it. When in doubt, throw it out and open a fresh pack.

Product-Specific Texture Notes

• Smoked Salmon Snack Strips: Made with 100% wild Alaskan salmon, our Smoked Salmon Strip is a favorite portable snack for pescatarians and mindful foodies alike. 7 grams of protein 100% Wild Caught Salmon Salmon naturally has a softer, flakier texture than beef or chicken, so expect a tender bite. The wild-caught quality means no added fillers that could affect texture.
• Chicken Sriracha Snack Strips: Inspired by one of our best-selling bars, our Chicken Sriracha Strip will light up your taste buds with bold heat from crushed red pepper, our custom sriracha spice blend, and savory free-range chicken. Whole30 approved, this tasty on-the-go snack is tailored to the conscious foodie who refuses to settle. 8 grams of protein 2 grams of carbs 0 grams of sugar Chicken strips are often softer than beef due to lower fat and different processing. The 0 grams of sugar means the softness isn't from added sugar, but from the meat's natural moisture.
• Sriracha Beef Bites: Not all beef is created equal. These bites are made with Land to Market verified beef raised with practices to reduce carbon emissions*. Add in some tart, dried cranberries and spices like paprika and crushed red pepper, and you’ve got the ultimate balance of sweet & spicy that you can feel good about eating. Conveniently portable and resealable – so you can share or snack throughout the day!*As measured in a... The dried cranberries add a bit of moisture, which can make the bites feel softer and chewier. The resealable packaging helps maintain that texture over multiple servings.

A soft texture in EPIC bites and strips is often a sign of quality, not a defect, especially with salmon and chicken varieties. By storing your snacks properly and inspecting for spoilage signs, you can enjoy them at their best. If the softness bothers you, try a beef strip with a firmer bite or a variety pack to find your preferred texture.