Are you a fan of pulled pork? Do you crave it during your pregnancy?
You’re not alone! But, as with any food during pregnancy, you may be wondering if it’s safe to eat.
The good news is that pulled pork can be a safe and delicious option for pregnant women, as long as it’s cooked properly.
In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of eating pulled pork while pregnant, including the differences between BBQ and grilled meats, how to ensure your pulled pork is cooked thoroughly, and what types of pork are safe to eat.
So sit back, relax, and let’s dig into this tasty topic!
Can You Eat Pulled Pork Pregnant?
The short answer is yes, you can eat pulled pork while pregnant. However, it’s important to understand the differences between BBQ and grilled meats.
BBQ and smoked meats, including pulled pork, are cooked low and slow at a low temperature for longer periods of time. This cooking method does not produce the same harmful polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) present in grilled meats, which are cooked quickly at a high temperature.
As long as your pulled pork is cooked thoroughly and eaten “steaming hot,” it is safe to enjoy during pregnancy. This also applies to BBQ-style pork cooked at home in a slow-cooker or crockpot.
It’s important to note that raw or undercooked meat, including pulled pork, should be avoided during pregnancy. Make sure your pulled pork is cooked all the way through before consuming it.
The Differences Between BBQ And Grilled Meats
While BBQ and grilled meats may seem similar, there are significant differences in the way they are cooked and the potential health risks they pose during pregnancy.
BBQ and smoked meats are cooked at a low temperature for longer periods of time, using smoking wood to add flavor. This cooking method does not produce the same harmful PAHs present in grilled meats. The slow cooking process allows the meat to cook thoroughly, eliminating any potential harmful bacteria.
On the other hand, grilled meats are cooked quickly at a high temperature, often over an open flame. This cooking method can produce high levels of PAHs, which can be harmful to both the mother and the developing fetus. PAHs are known to be carcinogenic and can negatively impact fetal development.
While pregnant women can still enjoy grilled meats, it’s important to take precautions to minimize exposure to PAHs. This includes avoiding charred or blackened parts of the meat, using lean cuts of meat, and marinating the meat before grilling it.
Is Pulled Pork Safe To Eat During Pregnancy?
Pulled pork is safe to eat during pregnancy as long as it has been cooked thoroughly and eaten “steaming hot.” When it comes to BBQ and smoked meats, including pulled pork, the cooking method is low and slow at a low temperature for longer periods of time. This method does not produce the same harmful polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) present in grilled meats, which are cooked quickly at a high temperature.
It’s important to ensure that your pulled pork is fully cooked before consuming it. This can be determined by checking the internal temperature of the meat with a thermometer. The USDA recommends that pork should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) with a 3-minute rest time before carving or consuming. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can judge if the pulled pork is safe to eat by looking at the color and texture of the meat. It should not be pink or underdone, but rather fully cooked through.
It’s also important to note that raw or undercooked meat, including pulled pork, should be avoided during pregnancy as it can increase the risk of foodborne illness. When dining out, make sure that all meats you order are cooked well done and only eat in places you feel have the highest standards for cleanliness and proper food handling.
How To Ensure Your Pulled Pork Is Cooked Thoroughly
To ensure your pulled pork is cooked thoroughly, it’s important to follow some key steps. First, choose the right cut of meat. The pork shoulder, specifically the Boston butt or picnic shoulder, is heavily marbled with fat and collagen from the leg bone, which helps create juicy pulled pork.
Next, cook the pork at a low temperature for a longer period of time. The cookery team recommends cooking your meat for two hours per kilogram on a super-low heat, around 140C or gas mark 2-3. The internal temperature of the meat should reach 205-210 degrees Fahrenheit for perfectly tender pork.
It’s also important to check the internal temperature regularly while cooking and ensure it has reached a minimum of 65-70C before wrapping it in aluminum foil. Once wrapped, let it cook slowly until it reaches an internal temperature of 90-92C.
Finally, make sure to let the meat rest for at least 30 minutes before pulling it apart and pouring back most of the moisture you caught in the aluminum foil to rehydrate the pork slightly while keeping the crunchy bits.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your pulled pork is cooked thoroughly and safe to eat during pregnancy.
What Types Of Pork Are Safe To Eat During Pregnancy?
When it comes to pork, there are certain types that are safe to eat during pregnancy and others that should be avoided. Here’s a breakdown of the different types of pork and their safety:
1. Cooked pork: Pork that has been thoroughly cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F/75°C is safe to eat during pregnancy. This includes pulled pork, pork chops, and roasted pork.
2. BBQ and smoked pork: BBQ and smoked pork can also be safe to eat during pregnancy, as long as they are cooked thoroughly even at low temperatures but for longer periods of time. This includes pulled pork that has been cooked in a slow-cooker or crockpot.
3. Bacon: Generally, bacon is safe to consume during pregnancy, as long as it is cooked thoroughly at piping hot temperatures.
4. Hotdogs/ sausages: Hotdogs and sausages are safe for pregnant women to eat, as long as they are cooked at the standard temperature of 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. Pork dumplings: Pregnant women can eat pork dumplings as long as the meat stuffed inside the wrapper is cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
It’s important to note that cold cuts or charcuterie pork should be avoided unless they are heated until they are hot. Additionally, pork liver should be avoided during pregnancy due to its high vitamin A content, which can be toxic and cause birth defects.