Forget beef jerky – Patagonia’s new sustainable snack is made of bison, no less

When you think of Patagonia, your mind probably goes to rugged yet comfortable outerwear, recycled materials, and perhaps a sense of mild outdoorsy superiority.

But Patagonia Provisions, the brand’s food and beverage arm, has just dropped a new trail-ready essential that’s all about sustainable snacking.

Coming from the same company that brought you the first U.S.-brewed non-alcoholic organic craft beer, the new Bison Sticks are protein-packed meat sticks made with 100% grass-fed and finished, free-roaming bison.

Unlike the preservative-heavy, mystery-meat snack sticks of old (and sadly, current), these are responsibly sourced from Wild Idea Buffalo Co.’s prairie-restoring herds in South Dakota.

That means every bite supports biodiversity and soil health across the American Great Plains. Hurray!

Designed for pocket-friendly fuelling on hikes, road trips or post-surf slumps, Bison Sticks are clean, simple, and seriously tasty. Well, I assume so; I haven't tried them yet.

Each 1oz stick delivers up to 9g of protein with no added sugar, junk or fillers.

Just meat, sea salt, spices, and a subtle kick of heat. They’re available in three bold flavours: Original, Jalapeño, and Ranch.

It’s not Patagonia’s first foray into bison: the brand already makes work boots from leftover bison hides as part of its full-animal approach.

The Wild Idea Work Boots look every bit as old school as it gets, and are built from "hardworking, long-lasting buffalo leather" that’s breathable and moisture-wicking.

However, this latest launch might be its most delicious step in the conservation journey yet.

Bison Sticks are available now at Patagonia Provisions in 12-packs for $48 (~£35.45/ AU$72.89).