Cooking pork to the proper internal temperature is crucial to ensure its safety and quality. 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 time. This temperature kills harmful bacteria and parasites that may be present in the meat, reducing the risk of foodborne illness.
Consuming undercooked pork can lead to various health issues, including trichinosis, a parasitic infection caused by eating raw or undercooked pork containing Trichinella larvae. Symptoms of trichinosis can range from mild to severe and may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, chills, muscle pain, and fatigue.