What is the internal cooking temperature for pork?

Pork should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit, followed by a rest time of at least three minutes before serving. This guideline helps to ensure that the pork is safe to eat by effectively reducing harmful bacteria, such as Trichinella spiralis, which can cause foodborne illness.

The 150 degrees Fahrenheit option may be slightly above the safe threshold where pork is considered acceptable to consume but is not the precise temperature recommended by food safety authorities. It's important to note that cooking pork to this temperature allows for a juicy and tender product while still maintaining safety standards.

It's crucial to recognize that the cooking temperature for pork has been updated for health and safety, and understanding the recommended standard is essential for safe food preparation in any kitchen environment.