What is the final cooking temperature for pork?

The final cooking temperature for pork is 145°F. Cooking pork to this temperature ensures that harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella and Trichinella, are effectively killed, making the meat safe to eat. This temperature also allows for a brief resting period of at least three minutes before carving or consuming, which helps maintain the juiciness and flavor of the pork. It is important for food safety to reach this specific minimum internal temperature, as it promotes both the well-being of consumers and optimal taste and texture in the finished product.