Icon Meats Original Elk Stick

Common questions

Is Icon Meats Original Elk Stick healthy?

Icon Meats Original Elk Stick scores 65/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This elk stick product features high-quality protein from elk and beneficial spices like pepper and garlic powder, which are minimally processed.

How processed is Icon Meats Original Elk Stick?

Icon Meats Original Elk Stick is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Icon Meats Original Elk Stick's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Elk, Pepper, Spices count in its favor; Dextrose is flagged as an ingredient of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

You might also like

See more

Icon Meats Original Elk Stick

Icon Meats
65 Fair

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

$59.99 · 1 oz · pack of 24 · $2.50 / ounce
Flavor
Size
View on Amazon
Verified Amazon match

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 5
Harmful ingredients 1
Category Jerky
Summary

This elk stick product features high-quality protein from elk and beneficial spices like pepper and garlic powder, which are minimally processed. However, it includes dextrose, a simple sugar that can contribute to increased blood sugar levels, and the product is moderately processed. Despite these concerns, the overall ingredient list is relatively clean, with no artificial additives or seed oils.

Key ingredients 12

Elk
Good

Elk is a high-quality source of protein with a rich amino acid profile. It is leaner than beef and provides essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins. As a wild game meat, it is typically free from antibiotics and hormones.

Benefits

Rich in protein and essential nutrients, supporting muscle growth and overall health.

Pepper
Good

Pepper is a spice that adds flavor and has potential health benefits. It contains piperine, which may enhance nutrient absorption. It is a natural ingredient with minimal processing.

Benefits

May enhance nutrient absorption and add flavor without calories.

See more about Pepper →
Spices
Good

Whole-food seasonings, antioxidant-bearing.

Benefits

May provide flavor and potential health benefits depending on the specific spices used.

See more about Spices →
Garlic Powder
Good

Garlic powder is a dehydrated form of garlic that retains many of its health benefits. It contains compounds that may support heart health and immune function. It is a natural ingredient with minimal processing.

Benefits

May support heart health and immune function due to its beneficial compounds.

See more about Garlic Powder →
Cherry
Good

Cherry is a natural fruit ingredient that may provide antioxidants and flavor. It is minimally processed and adds a natural sweetness. Cherries contain beneficial compounds like anthocyanins.

Benefits

Provides antioxidants and natural sweetness, contributing to flavor and potential health benefits.

See more about Cherry →
Pork
Neutral

Pork provides a good source of protein and essential nutrients. The quality can vary depending on the farming practices used. It is important to consider the fat content and potential for added hormones or antibiotics.

Risks

Potential for high saturated fat content and presence of added hormones or antibiotics if not sourced responsibly.

Benefits

Provides protein and essential nutrients like thiamine and selenium.

See more about Pork →
Water
Neutral

Water is used as a processing aid and does not contribute nutritional value. It helps in maintaining moisture in the product. There are no health concerns associated with water as an ingredient.

See more about Water →
Salt
Neutral

Salt is used for flavor enhancement and preservation. It is a common ingredient in processed foods. Excessive consumption can lead to health issues such as hypertension.

Risks

High sodium intake can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative.

See more about Salt →
Encapsulated Lactic Acid
Neutral

Encapsulated lactic acid is used to control acidity and improve shelf life. It is a processed ingredient but generally recognized as safe. It does not provide nutritional benefits.

Benefits

Helps control acidity and improve shelf life.

See more about Encapsulated Lactic Acid →
Encapsulated Citric Acid
Neutral

Encapsulated citric acid is used as a preservative and to enhance flavor. It is a processed ingredient but generally recognized as safe. It does not provide nutritional benefits.

Benefits

Acts as a preservative and enhances flavor.

See more about Encapsulated Citric Acid →
Celery Juice Powder
Neutral

Celery juice powder is used as a natural preservative and flavor enhancer. It contains nitrates that can act similarly to added nitrites in curing processes. It is a natural ingredient but may contribute to nitrate intake.

Risks

May contribute to nitrate intake, which can be a concern for some individuals.

Benefits

Acts as a natural preservative and flavor enhancer.

Dextrose
Bad

Dextrose is a simple sugar used as a sweetener and preservative. It can contribute to increased blood sugar levels. Overconsumption of simple sugars is linked to various health issues.

Risks

May contribute to increased blood sugar levels and related health issues when consumed in excess.

Benefits

Provides quick energy but lacks other nutritional benefits.

See more about Dextrose →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

Get the full breakdown in the Scout appTake Scout shopping

Scan any product to see lab results, healthy alternatives, and your personalized analysis.

Download on theApp Store GET IT ONGoogle Play
Amazon pricing & content

Amazon price as of . Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED “AS IS” AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

More in Jerky