what temp should pork be

The recommended safe internal temperature for fresh pork cuts such as chops, roasts, loin, and tenderloin is 145°F (63°C), followed by a 3-minute rest. Ground pork should be cooked to a higher temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safety. Cooking pork to these temperatures ensures it is safe to eat while maintaining juiciness and flavor. Using a digital meat thermometer to check the temperature at the thickest part of the meat away from bone is the best way to ensure doneness. After reaching the target temperature, allowing the meat to rest for 3 minutes helps distribute the juices and may continue to kill any lingering bacteria.