ALABAMA A&M and AUBURN UNIVERSITIES

For more information,
contact Donna Reynolds, Extension Assistant Editor

COOKING PORK

AUBURN, March 20---The latest recommendations for cooking pork will not only ensure the meat is safe, but also juicy, flavorful and tender.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture and the pork industry recommend pork be cooked to a temperature of 160-170 degrees Fahrenheit or medium to well done.

Pork cooked to 160 degrees Fahrenheit will be light pink in the center. Pork cooked to 170 degrees will lose almost all of its pink color and some additional juiciness, though it be more flavorful.

It's easy to check smaller pieces of pork such as chops for desired doneness simply by cutting a small slit near the center and making a visual determination. For roasts and other larger pieces of meat, consider using a quality meat thermometer to check doneness.

There are a variety of cooking methods that can be used to prepare pork -- frying, grilling, baking, broiling, stir fry, and roasting. Most cuts can be cooked by any of these methods with or without liquid.