Facts about pork you may not have known:
- Less than 50% of the fat in pork, beef and veal is
saturated.
- The average fat and cholesterol content of trimmed, lean pork is 31%
lower today than it was 20 years ago.
- The cholesterol amount of pork and beef is no more than that of
chicken or turkey. A three ounce serving of cooked lean pork has 78mg of
cholesterol compared with 76mg in cooked, skinless chicken.
- Today's pork is so lean, that it is important not to overcook it. For
fork-tender, juicy pork, the USDA recommends cooking pork to medium-done
an internal temperature of 160 degrees fahrenheit. Remember to think, "slightly
pink".
- In addition to protein, pork is an excellent source of Zinc, Vitamin
B12 and B5, Thiamon, and Iron.
- Protein is the building block for the body. It strengthens the immune
system and helps maintain the blood. The protein in meat is "complete" protein
it contains vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
- Growth hormones are NOT used in pork production.
- Pork is the number one consumed meat in the world.
- Pork is the most versatile meat -- it can be marinated, dry rubbed,
roasted, microwaved, grilled, skewered, pan-fried, stir-fried, boiled,
barbequed, and baked. It can be included on a heart-healthy menu with 8
outstanding cuts.
Courtesy of the North Carolina Pork Council