Concerns About Undercooked Pork: Should You See a Doctor?

Dietary hygiene issues

Hello Doctor: Today, I prepared dinner by cooking a whole box of refrigerated pork ribs from the supermarket in soup.
However, I only noticed that the last piece of rib had pink meat, which indicates that the pieces I ate earlier may not have been fully cooked.
I did ensure that the soup boiled for three minutes, and the overall heating time was about ten to fifteen minutes.
Should I be concerned about the possibility of pork parasites in this situation? Do I need to seek medical attention?

C, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/07/13

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

The risk of opportunity should not be significant, but please remain cautious with ready-to-eat foods.

Reply Date: 2023/07/13

More Info

When it comes to concerns about undercooked pork, it’s understandable to feel anxious, especially given the potential health risks associated with consuming improperly cooked meat. In your case, you mentioned that the pork ribs you prepared were pink in the center, which can indeed be a cause for concern. However, let’s break down the situation and provide some guidance on whether you should see a doctor.

First, it’s important to understand the risks associated with undercooked pork. Pork can harbor parasites such as Trichinella spiralis, which causes trichinosis, as well as bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli. Trichinosis is particularly associated with undercooked or raw pork and can lead to symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, fatigue, and abdominal discomfort. The symptoms typically appear within a few days to weeks after consuming contaminated meat.
In your case, you mentioned that the pork was cooked for about 10 to 15 minutes, with a boiling time of three minutes. While boiling can kill many pathogens, the internal temperature of the meat is crucial. The USDA recommends that pork be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) followed by a three-minute rest time. If the meat was still pink and did not reach this temperature, there is a risk of foodborne illness.

Given that you have already consumed some of the pork, it’s essential to monitor yourself for any symptoms of foodborne illness. If you start experiencing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain within a few days, it would be wise to seek medical attention. In most cases, foodborne illnesses resolve on their own, but severe cases may require medical intervention, especially if dehydration occurs due to vomiting or diarrhea.

If you do not experience any symptoms within a few days, it is likely that you will be fine. However, if you have any underlying health conditions or a weakened immune system, it may be prudent to consult with a healthcare professional for peace of mind.

In summary, while the situation is concerning, the best course of action is to monitor for symptoms. If you experience any signs of illness, do not hesitate to see a doctor. Additionally, for future reference, always ensure that pork is cooked thoroughly to the recommended internal temperature to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses. If you have any further questions or concerns, feel free to reach out for more information.

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