Cooking temperature for pork refers to the internal temperature at which pork should be cooked to ensure both safety and optimal quality. It is essential to cook pork to the proper temperature to avoid the risk of foodborne illness and to achieve the desired texture and flavor.
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends cooking pork to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit (63 degrees Celsius), followed by a three-minute rest period. This temperature kills harmful bacteria while preserving the juiciness and tenderness of the meat. Cooking pork to a higher temperature can result in dry and tough meat.