Can Bacon Contain Pork Tapeworms? Risks and Treatments

Pork parasites

Hello, doctor: I would like to ask if pork tapeworms can be present in bacon.
Recently, I had bacon fried rice from a restaurant, where the bacon was shredded into pieces and added to the rice.
The bacon appeared red after cooking, and I initially thought it was cured meat, so I didn't consider the possibility of parasitic infection.
However, I found online that bacon can be classified as cooked, semi-cooked, or raw meat.
Is there a risk of pork tapeworms or their larvae being present in bacon?
Additionally, I wanted to know if I can buy medication for treating pork tapeworms at a regular pharmacy, but they said they don't have it.
When I asked at a clinic, they only provided mebendazole.
If I go to a hospital, will I need to undergo tests before receiving specific medication for treating pork tapeworms? I found that mebendazole is ineffective against cysticercosis and tapeworms.
Is mebendazole currently the only available broad-spectrum anthelmintic, or are there other medications specifically for treating pork tapeworms?

Viky, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/09/28

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

The likelihood of infection should be low (it is rare in Taiwan).
If you are concerned, you can schedule an appointment with the infectious disease department.

Reply Date: 2020/09/28

More Info

Pork tapeworms, specifically Taenia solium, are a concern when it comes to consuming undercooked or contaminated pork products. While bacon is typically cured and cooked, the risk of tapeworm infection primarily arises from the consumption of raw or undercooked pork. In the case of bacon, it is important to note that the cooking process can vary significantly. Some bacon is fully cooked, while others may be partially cooked or even raw when sold.
When bacon is cooked properly, it should reach an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) to ensure that any potential parasites, including pork tapeworms, are killed. However, if the bacon is not cooked adequately, there remains a risk of infection. The red appearance of the bacon you mentioned could be due to the curing process, which often involves salt and other preservatives, but it does not guarantee that the meat is free from parasites if it has not been cooked thoroughly.

Regarding the treatment of pork tapeworm infections, mebendazole is a commonly prescribed medication for various types of intestinal worms, including some tapeworms. However, it is not specifically effective against Taenia solium. The primary treatment for pork tapeworm infections is praziquantel, which is more effective in eliminating the adult tapeworm from the intestines. In many cases, a healthcare provider will conduct a stool examination to confirm the presence of tapeworm eggs or segments before prescribing the appropriate medication.

If you suspect you have a tapeworm infection, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend a stool test to check for the presence of the tapeworm or its eggs. If confirmed, they will prescribe the appropriate medication, which may not be available over the counter.
In summary, while bacon can potentially harbor pork tapeworms if not cooked properly, the risk is significantly reduced when it is cooked to the appropriate temperature. If you have concerns about a possible infection, it is crucial to seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, maintaining good food safety practices, such as cooking pork thoroughly and avoiding cross-contamination, can help prevent tapeworm infections and other foodborne illnesses.

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