What color should pork tenderloin be when cooked

Pork, a versatile and delectable meat, has long been a staple in culinary traditions worldwide.

Can pork be medium rare

However, the question of what color cooked pork should be has sparked debates and misconceptions, often leading to overcooked and dry meat. This comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies of pork’s internal color during cooking, empowering you with the knowledge to achieve perfectly cooked, juicy, and flavorful pork every time.

Understanding Myoglobin: The Pigment Behind Pork’s Color

Myoglobin, a protein found in muscle tissue, is the primary determinant of meat’s color.

In raw pork, myoglobin exists in its deoxymyoglobin form, giving the meat a purplish-red hue. As pork is heated, myoglobin undergoes a series of chemical reactions, transitioning through oxymyoglobin (bright red) and metmyoglobin (brownish-gray) before finally denaturing and losing its color.

Factors Influencing Cooked Pork’s Color

The internal color of cooked pork is influenced by several factors, including:

• Endpoint Temperature: The internal temperature at which the pork is co

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