What is the recommended internal cooking temperature for pork?

What is the recommended internal cooking temperature for pork?

• A. 145 degrees Fahrenheit
• B. 155 degrees Fahrenheit
• C. 165 degrees Fahrenheit
• D. 140 degrees Fahrenheit

Answer: (A)

For pork cuts, cook to 145°F as the safe minimum, then let the meat rest for 3 minutes. The rest time allows heat to continue cooking inside the meat and gives juices a chance to redistribute, which keeps the pork juicy while still being safe to eat. Cooking pork to temperatures much higher than 145°F can dry it out without extra safety benefit for fresh pork. For ground pork, aim higher—about 160°F—since grinding changes how heat destroys bacteria.

For pork cuts, cook to 145°F as the safe minimum, then let the meat rest for 3 minutes. The rest time allows heat to continue cooking inside the meat and gives juices a chance to redistribute, which keeps the pork juicy while still being safe to eat. Cooking pork to temperatures much higher than 145°F can dry it out without extra safety benefit for fresh pork. For ground pork, aim higher—about 160°F—since grinding changes how heat destroys bacteria.