Question about making Venison Jerky

[Trophy_Bucks]

I'm making venison nuggets and I know the basics of making jerky. My question is though, the USDA advises to cook your meat until it reaches 160 degrees before dehydrating. Does anyone stick there venison in the oven with the door open until it reaches 160 degrees and then throw it into there dehydrator? Or will this make it lose to much flavor?

[trader74]

I just dehydrate my deer in the oven for 6 hours at 170 degrees ( the lowest setting for my oven) it always works for me. every one i know with a dehydrator just throws it in there i wouldnt worry bout it.

[Trophy_Bucks]

Trader74,

Thanks for the response. I've just thrown it in my dehydrator for years without getting sick too. I was just wondering if anyone else has done this before and if the flavor was still what it should be. If so, I wont take that risk anymore. Thanks again though Trader.

[Big Z]

I've heard of the 160 degree game, but I just add cure to the marinade and dry at around 145 and have had no problems.