Food · Pork Facts
Put Pork on Your Fork
Cooking Times & Temperatures
Pork today is very lean and shouldn’t be overcooked. The National Pork Board follows the guidance of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which recommends cooking roasts, tenderloins, and chops to an internal temperature of 145°F, followed by a 3-minute rest time. Ground pork, like all ground meat, should be cooked to 160°F.
- Thanks to improved farming practices, we no longer need to cook pork more than 145°. Pork doesn't have to be dry like your grandma cooked it (sorry grandma). It can be flavorful and juicy!
145°F
Roasts, Tenderloins & Chops
This applies to whole cuts like chops, roasts, and tenderloins. The 3-minute rest allows the internal temperature to rise slightly, ensuring safe and perfectly cooked pork.
160°F
Like all ground meat, ground pork should be cooked through completely. Use a digital meat thermometer for the most accurate reading every time.
Pork Cooking Temperature & Meat Thermometer Basics
Pork - It's More Than Just Bacon
New York Pork Chop
Sirloin Pork Chop
Ribeye Pork Chop
New York Roast
Ground Pork (96% lean)
Pork Nutrition
- There are no added hormones or steroids used in the production of pork ever!
- Protein
- Vitamin B6 & B12
- Thiamin
- Riboflavin
- Zinc
- Niacin
- Selenium
- Choline
- Phosphorous
The Power of Pork Protein
Buying NC Pork
As the nation’s third-largest pork producer, North Carolina farmers supply pork to consumers across the country. Even if the pork in the meat case is sold under a national brand name, there’s a good chance it was raised right here in North Carolina .
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