Reasons why pork cannot be eaten raw

Pork cannot be eaten raw mainly because it may carry parasites and pathogenic bacteria. Common risks include tapeworm, trichinella, Salmonella, etc. Pathogens in raw pork can be effectively killed by high-temperature cooking, and it is recommended to cook it thoroughly before consumption. Pork may be infected with parasite eggs or larvae during breeding, transportation, or processing, with Taenia solium being the most typical example. The cysticerci of this parasite can parasitize pork muscles and develop into adults in the human intestine after raw consumption, causing abdominal pain, indigestion, and even intestinal obstruction. The larvae of Trichinella also spread through raw pork, invading human muscle tissue and causing symptoms such as fever and muscle pain. When cooking, a center temperature above 71 degrees Celsius can completely inactivate these parasites. Raw pork may also contaminate pathogenic bacteria such as Salmonella and Escherichia coli. These bacteria are prone to adhere to the surface of meat after pig slaughter, and even freezing treatment cannot completely kill them. Within a few hours after infection, severe symptoms of food poisoning such as diarrhea and vomiting may occur, posing a higher risk to children and those with weakened immune systems. Some bacteria produce toxins that are resistant to high temperatures, and it is difficult to eliminate the harm by simply blanching them briefly.

Special cutting boards and knives should be used for daily processing of pork to avoid cross contamination. When purchasing, choose cold fresh meat that has passed quarantine inspection, rinse thoroughly before cooking, and ensure that there is no pink color in the center. For special populations such as pregnant women, young children, or chronic disease patients, it is recommended to stew pork until it is soft and tender, which can ensure safety and help with nutrient absorption. If you experience persistent abdominal pain or fever after consuming raw pork by mistake, seek medical attention promptly to check for parasitic infections.