Cooking pork to the proper internal temperature is crucial for safety and quality. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends cooking pork to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit, followed by a three-minute rest time. This ensures that the pork is safe to eat and has reached a doneness level where it is tender and juicy.
Cooking pork to the proper temperature helps to prevent foodborne illness, such as trichinosis and salmonella. Trichinosis is a parasitic infection that can be caused by eating undercooked pork. Symptoms of trichinosis can include fever, muscle aches, and fatigue. Salmonella is a type of bacteria that can cause food poisoning. Symptoms of salmonella can include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.