Pork tapeworm
I am a bit concerned after eating what I suspect was undercooked pork.
I would like to ask the doctor if the larvae and eggs of the pork tapeworm can be killed through freezing.
If so, how long should the pork be frozen?
JK, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/12/09
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Freezing at -5°C for three days, -24°C for one day, or cooking at temperatures above 65.5°C can effectively kill parasites.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.
Reply Date: 2023/12/09
More Info
Freezing can indeed be an effective method for killing pork tapeworms (Taenia solium) and their eggs. The primary concern with undercooked pork is the potential for infection with these parasites, which can lead to serious health issues, including cysticercosis, if the eggs are ingested.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), freezing pork at a temperature of -4°F (-20°C) for a minimum of 7 days can kill the larvae of the pork tapeworm. This method is particularly useful for home cooks who may not have access to commercial cooking methods that ensure the meat is cooked to a safe internal temperature. It is important to note that while freezing can kill the larvae, it may not be effective against all stages of the parasite, particularly if the meat is not frozen long enough or if the temperature is not low enough.
For best practices, it is recommended to cook pork to an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) and allow it to rest for three minutes before carving or consuming. This temperature is sufficient to kill any viable tapeworms or other pathogens that may be present in the meat.
In addition to freezing and cooking, it is crucial to ensure that pork is sourced from reputable suppliers who follow safe handling and processing practices. This includes proper sanitation and inspection of the meat to minimize the risk of contamination.
If you suspect that you have consumed undercooked pork or are experiencing symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, or changes in bowel habits, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform tests to determine if there is an infection and recommend appropriate treatment.
In summary, freezing pork at -4°F for at least 7 days can kill pork tapeworm larvae, but cooking pork to the recommended internal temperature is the most reliable method to ensure safety. Always prioritize safe food handling practices to reduce the risk of parasitic infections.
Similar Q&A
Concerns About Undercooked Frozen Dumplings and Parasites in Children
Hello, doctor. My 3-year-old child took a bite of undercooked frozen dumplings. I remember seeing a report on TV that undercooked raw pork can carry deadly parasites. What should I do? Which specialist should I see? Can antiparasitic medication kill the parasites?
Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics
Common parasites in pigs include roundworms, strongyles, whipworms, trichinella, lungworms, and pork tapeworms, among others. However, in Taiwan, the deworming programs for pigs are relatively effective, and the likelihood of pigs carrying parasites is low. Additionally, the amou...[Read More] Concerns About Undercooked Frozen Dumplings and Parasites in Children
Understanding Pork Tapeworms: Safety Tips for Frozen Dumplings
Doctor, last month I ate frozen soup dumplings that were not fully cooked during the preparation process, and now I'm a bit worried. Although it's not commonly seen in Taiwan, I noticed that in the doctor's response, it mentioned that freezing at -5 degrees Celsius...
Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
There have been reports of infections in Taiwan without known causes, but there is no need to worry at this time; simply monitor for any abnormalities.[Read More] Understanding Pork Tapeworms: Safety Tips for Frozen Dumplings
Concerns About Pork Tapeworm Infection After Handling Fresh Pork
This morning, I went to the market to buy pork (ground pork). The vendor said the pork was freshly slaughtered. After I brought it home and handled it, I forgot to wash my hands, but I did use alcohol to disinfect them before eating. Is there a risk of parasitic infection in this...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin reply Internal Medicine
No; you can refer to the CDC's information: https://www.cdc.gov.tw/Category/ListContent/AHwuigegBBBmuDcbWkzoGQ?uaid=T0MRJj8KVycdb4ZS6EGu_g. In Hualien County, an indigenous man named Peng Zhaoxi frequently consumed raw wild boar meat. Over a month ago, he developed a hard lu...[Read More] Concerns About Pork Tapeworm Infection After Handling Fresh Pork
Can Bacon Contain Pork Tapeworms? Understanding Risks and Treatments
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 ...
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.[Read More] Can Bacon Contain Pork Tapeworms? Understanding Risks and Treatments
Related FAQ
(Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Parasites(Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Diarrhea(Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Vomiting(Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Intestinal Whipworm Infection(Internal Medicine)
Stomachache(Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Cecum(Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Cholecystectomy(Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Pancreatitis(Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Digestion(Gastroenterology and Hepatology)