What Color Should Pork Tenderloin Be When Cooked?

Pork tenderloin is a versatile and delicious cut of meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways. However, one of the most common questions about pork tenderloin is what color it should be when cooked.

The Dangers of Undercooked Pork

In the past, pork was often cooked to a very high temperature in order to kill any potential parasites, such as trichinosis. However, modern farming practices have made trichinosis very rare in the United States. As a result, the USDA has lowered the recommended cooking temperature for pork to 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

Cooking pork to a lower temperature helps to keep it moist and juicy. However, it is important to note that pork should never be cooked to a temperature below 145 degrees Fahrenheit, as this can increase the risk of foodborne illness.

How to Tell When Pork Tenderloin Is Cooked

The best way to tell when pork tenderloin is cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the tenderloin and cook until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you do not have a meat thermometer, you can also use the following visual cues to determine if pork tenderloin is cooked:

• The meat should be pale white with a hint of pink in the center.
• The juices should run clear when the meat is pierced with a fork or knife.
• The meat should be firm to the touch, but not tough.

What to Do if Pork Tenderloin Is Pink

If you cut into your pork tenderloin and it is still pink in the center, do not panic. As long as the internal temperature has reached 145 degrees Fahrenheit, the meat is safe to eat.

The pink color in pork is caused by a protein called myoglobin. Myoglobin is responsible for giving meat its red color. When meat is cooked, the myoglobin breaks down and the meat turns brown. However, in some cases, the myoglobin may not break down completely, which can result in the meat remaining pink even after it has been cooked to a safe temperature.

If you are concerned about the color of your pork tenderloin, you can always cook it to a higher temperature. However, keep in mind that overcooking pork can make it dry and tough.

Tips for Cooking Pork Tenderloin

Here are a few tips for cooking pork tenderloin:

• Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.
• Place the pork tenderloin on a baking sheet and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Let the pork tenderloin rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Pork tenderloin is a delicious and versatile cut of meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways. By following the tips in this article, you can cook pork tenderloin to perfection every time.