What is the safe cooking temperature for pork?

The safe cooking temperature for pork is 72 degrees Celsius. This temperature is critical to ensure that any harmful bacteria, such as Trichinella spiralis and Salmonella, are effectively destroyed. Cooking pork to this temperature mitigates the risk of foodborne illness, providing a safe and enjoyable dining experience.

Additionally, while other temperatures may seem reasonable for cooking pork, they do not meet the standards set by food safety organizations. For instance, 65 degrees Celsius falls short of ensuring all pathogens are eliminated, while temperatures of 80 degrees Celsius or 75 degrees Celsius, although safe, are not necessary for pork, which could lead to overcooking and loss of quality. Thus, 72 degrees Celsius is the optimal safe cooking temperature that balances food safety and desired texture.