YAYS Beef Crisps Defeat Jack Link’s, Krave & Oberto to Claim #1 Spot in National Jerky Ranking

Los Angeles, CA — August 8, 2025 — YAYS, the Cambodian-inspired beef crisp brand redefining the jerky aisle, has been named America’s best beef jerky in a nationwide taste test by food creator and meat expert Max the Meat Guy.

In his viral YouTube video, “I Ranked EVERY Beef Jerky in America”, Max sampled and ranked dozens of brands — including Jack Link’s, Krave, Oberto, Tillamook Country Smoker, and Country Archer — before awarding YAYS the #1 spot.

“This is hands down the best beef jerky I’ve ever had. Crispy, savory, and unlike anything else on the market,” Max said in the review, citing YAYS’ light, crunchy texture, bold flavors, and 24 grams of protein per bag.

Founded by Marlin Ramsey Chan and inspired by his Cambodian grandmother’s marinade, YAYS uses premium cuts of beef, a proprietary crisping process, and clean ingredients to deliver a snack that blends heritage with innovation. The brand’s format — a crispy chip-like jerky — taps into consumer demand for better-for-you convenience snacks that don’t compromise on flavor.

Market Context: According to market research firm IRI, the U.S. meat snacks category surpassed $5 billion in annual sales in 2024, fueled by rising demand for high-protein, low-sugar snacks. While traditional chewy jerky still dominates shelf space, innovative formats like crisps and sticks are driving incremental growth and attracting younger, health-conscious consumers. YAYS’ win over legacy players underscores how consumer preferences are shifting toward new textures, bold global flavors, and cleaner labels.

“We wanted to create something unique in a category that hasn’t seen much change in decades,” said Chan. “To be recognized above the brands we grew up with shows there’s real space for innovation in jerky.”

The win adds to YAYS’ growing momentum in the CPG space, with nationwide online availability, retail expansion plans, and a growing base of health-conscious and flavor-driven fans.