At one time, pork was served only well done.  This was done to 
ensure that meat was safe to eat and to melt out the fat.  
Today's pork has changed . . . Here are the facts.

Today's Pork: Impressive nutritional credentials!

Growing children and teenagers, busy adults, active seniors, the weight conscious and athletes all could benefit from including pork in their diets.  An average 100g (3 1/2oz) cooked serving of today's pork provides a generous amount of many essential nutrients.  Thiamin (B1), Niacin (B2), Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Iron, Zinc, and Protein.

Pork need not be overcooked.
It can be cooked to medium 160F (70C) to give a juicy and tender product.  Years ago consumers were concerned about trichinosis in pork and therefore overcooked it.  Today, as a result of improved production methods in Canada, there has not been a case of trichinosis for over 17 years.  Now if pork is cooked to a higher temperature the meat tends to dry out and become tough.  The exception is ground pork and sausage, which like all ground meats, should be cooked thoroughly.

  • Estimate 4 oz (120g) raw pork for a 3 1/2 oz (100g) cooked serving.  Water evaporates during cooking resulting in weight loss.

  • Don't overcook pork - cook to 160F (70C)

  • Use a meat thermometer when roasting to avoid guessing when pork is done.

  • When cooking stuffed pork roasts, ensure the tip of the meat thermometer is in the meat, not the stuffing.

  • Trim visible fat before cooking.

  • After removing a roast from the oven, cover with foil and let stand for 10-15 minutes before carving.

  • Slice pork (and all meats) across the grain.

  • Stir-fry pork strips quickly over medium-high heat.  Do not overcook since the meat will toughen and dry out.

  • Barbecue or grill over low to medium-high heat.  Use tongs for turning the meat.

  • Use a non-stick skillet for pan frying and stir-frying.  This way you need little or no oil, which reduces the fat added to the meat.

  • When in doubt, throw it out!  If you discover something in the refrigerator that you had forgotten about, don't taste it!  If it looks or smells suspicious, throw it out.

  • Remove as much air as possible from freezer bags before sealing.  This will help prevent freezer burn on your meats.

  • A double layer of waxed paper between steaks, chops and patties makes it easier to separate them later on.

© 2002 Chambers Food Service.  Reprinted with permission from the Pork People
& Ontario Pork.