Cooking pork to the proper internal temperature is crucial to ensure food safety and optimal taste. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends cooking pork to an internal temperature of 145F (63C) as measured by a meat thermometer. At this temperature, Trichinella parasites, which can cause trichinosis, are killed, and the meat is safe to consume.
Consuming undercooked pork can lead to foodborne illnesses such as trichinosis. Symptoms of trichinosis may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, fever, chills, and muscle pain. In severe cases, trichinosis can lead to heart and brain inflammation and even death.